This book review is reprinted with the permission of the International Foundation for Homeopathy
PO Box 7
Edmonds, WA 98020
(206) 776-4147

Book details risks and benefits of immunization
Reviewed by Harry Swope

The Vaccine Guide: Making an Informed Choice
By Randall Neustaedter, OMD, LAc, CCH

The Vaccine Guide by Randall Neustaedter is one of the few books that presents a full and accurate discussion of the risks and benefits of immunizations. It includes a chapter that presents highlights of what is known about the sometimes controversial topic of homeopathic "immunizations." This book should become the standard reference for all physicians and one that they frequently recommend to their patients.

Continuing the excellent scholarship of his other books on children's health, The Vaccine Guide presents the leading arguments for and against immunizations in general and a detailed discussion of the pros and cons of each childhood vaccine. The book also examines issues of timing, forms of the vaccines to use, special risks, and optional strategies.

It also raises intriguing questions about the possible adverse long-term effects of new vaccines such as the ones for chicken pox and RH-flus. While documenting the "official" rationale favoring vaccination, the book discusses how natural immunization takes place and raises disturbing concerns about the possible negative long-term impact on our health of interfering with that natural immune function.

The Vaccine Guide provides an excellent overview of the legal requirements for vaccination, the options that exist, and, in an appendix, numerous resources for further information and help. The Vaccine Guide can be an invaluable resource for parents that should be reviewed carefully from time to time.

About the reviewer: Dr. Swope is a naturopathic physician who graduated from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, OR. He is president of the Council Homeopathic Certification and treasurer of Institute for Natural Medicine. He practices in Burbank, CA.

RESONANCE - January/February 1997