A new report says exposure to pollutants may reduce a child's immune response to vaccinations.

Dr. Philippe Grandjean from the University of Southern Denmark tells Reuters Health, "Pollutants, such as PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), may be partially responsible that vaccinations don't 'take' in some children."

"I believe that this is yet another reason to protect children -- and pregnant women -- against chemical pollutants

In the first study of its kind, researchers at Saint Louis University have demonstrated immunization with a new vaccine could potentially prevent more than a million cases of pertussis (whooping cough) each year in adolescents and adults.

Most children are protected from pertussis by a series of vaccines in early childhood. But the vaccine protection wanes after a decade or so, leaving adolescents and adults susceptible to the bacterial infection

British Treasury Chief Gordon Brown on Friday introduced a $4 billion program to provide lifesaving immunizations in poor countries, reports The Associated Press.

The initiative hopes to save the lives of five million children and as many adults as possible. Along with Britain, France, Italy, Spain and Sweden are also sponsoring the program

British Treasury Chief Gordon Brown on Friday introduced a $4 billion program to provide lifesaving immunizations in poor countries, reports The Associated Press.

The initiative hopes to save the lives of five million children and as many adults as possible. Along with Britain, France, Italy, Spain and Sweden are also sponsoring the program

Federal health officials report nearly 81-percent of the nation's toddlers are vaccinated on time, a record level that comes five years ahead of government expectations.

Dr. Stephen Cochi, acting vaccine chief at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says the numbers are a testament to the fact parents are recognizing the benefits and importance of vaccinations