Addressing the Crises of Declining Vaccination Rates and Measles Resurgence by Promoting Health Literacy

Pediatric vaccination rates are declining in the United States, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting decreases in immunization coverage against measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis (DTaP), polio, and varicella. The recent measles outbreaks have resulted in tragic outcomes, highlighting the urgent need for clinician concern and proactive measures to prevent illness, hospitalizations, missed school and caregiver workdays, and deaths. According to the World Health Organization, MMR vaccination rates below 95% compromise herd immunity, increasing the risk of sustained outbreaks. This article reviews the decreasing rates of pediatric vaccine uptake and the measles outbreak; examines the role of health and vaccine literacy in shaping parental decision-making amid these crises; and explores factors contributing to disparities in vaccination rates including ethnicity, residence location, and birth country. Finally, it outlines strategies primary care clinicians can use to improve pediatric vaccination rates and summarizes CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Describe recent trends in pediatric and community vaccination rates in the United States and explain how declining coverage has contributed to measles resurgence and other vaccine-preventable disease risks
• Understand the influence of misinformation and digital media on vaccine confidence and uptake
• Analyze the relationships among health literacy, vaccine-specific literacy, and caregiver decision-making
• Identify populations disproportionately affected by low health literacy and discuss how these disparities impact vaccination behaviors
• Apply evidence-based communication strategies to address vaccine hesitancy
• Implement system- and community-level interventions to improve vaccination coverage, counteract misinformation, and address structural barriers

Female Sexual Dysfunction: Screening, Diagnosis, and Management

Sexual health is an important indicator of one’s overall well-being and quality of life. Although sexual dysfunction can significantly impact women, it is often underreported and underdiscussed in routine clinical encounters. This activity provides an overview of female sexual dysfunction, including its classifications, risk factors, pathophysiology, symptoms, screening, and diagnosis. It also highlights emerging and established treatment options for affected patients.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Recognize DSM-5 categories and core diagnostic criteria for female sexual dysfunction
• Apply focused sexual history and validated tools to assess and differentiate dysfunction types
• Compare evidence-based treatment options, including behavioral, hormonal, and nonhormonal therapies
• Apply patient-centered strategies to improve communication, education, and shared decision-making

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