For older people and frail people, the long-term benefit of medicines reduces and the potential for harm from adverse effects increases. When the benefit–risk balance changes in this way, medicine review and optimisation are important to simplify the therapeutic regimen, reduce inappropriate medicines and minimise risks. In this article, pharmacist prescriber Linda Bryant uses two case studies to illustrate important considerations during medicine reviews
Impressive benefits of measles vaccination must be sustained
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Impressive benefits of measles vaccination must be sustained
Wednesday 14 August 2024, 12:15 AM

Over the last 50 years, vaccination has averted 154 million deaths globally [Image: adrian vieriu on Pexels]
A study has shown vaccination, particularly for measles, has provided huge public health benefits over the last 50 years. However, a second study highlights a recent increase in measles cases globally
This Practice article has been endorsed by the RNZCGP and has been approved for up to 0.25 credits for continuing professional development purposes (1, Educate small, BACK panel - grey
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand Doctor Rata Aotearoa
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References
1. Shattock AJ, Johnson HC, Sim SY, et al. Contribution of vaccination to improved survival and health: modelling 50 years of the Expanded Programme on Immunization. Lancet 2024;403(10441):2307–16.
2. Mathis AD, Raines K, Masters NB, et al. Measles – United States, January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2024;73(14):295–300.