“Vaccine counseling is really a team sport. — Dr. Anne Pham-Huy

Vaccines can stir anxiety for patients and confusion for clinicians, especially when biologics enter the mix. Dr. Mariam Hanna is joined by Dr. Anne Pham-Huy, clinical immunologist at CHEO, member of the Special Immunization Clinic Network, NACI member, and chair of Immunize Canada. Together, they break down the science of vaccine responses and tackle some of the trickiest questions allergists face in daily practice.

On this episode:

• The major types of vaccines — from live attenuated to mRNA — and what sets them apart.
  
  
• Why live vaccines often produce strong, durable protection, but may require caution in certain patients.
  
  
• How adult immunization is still underutilized, with gaps in boosters, pneumococcal, HPV, and influenza coverage.
  
  
• Which “special populations” need tailored vaccine strategies, including patients on immunosuppressants, transplant recipients, and those with chronic disease.
  
  
• Practical guidance on timing vaccines around biologic use and which precautions truly matter.
  
  
• When to check titers and antibody responses — and why it’s only relevant for select patient groups.
  
  
• Strategies for counselling vaccine-hesitant patients with empathy, focusing on disease risk and building trust.
  
  
• What’s next: combination mRNA vaccines and nirsevimab for RSV prevention in infants.

The questions are simple — are they vaccinated, special, or special enough — but the answers matter.

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The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions