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The need for closer linkages between scientific and programmatic areas focused on addressing vaccine-preventable and acute respiratory infections led to establishment of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. During its first 10 years (2006-2015), NCIRD worked with partners to improve preparedness and response to pandemic influenza and other emergent respiratory infections, provide an evidence base for addition of 7 newly recommended vaccines, and modernize vaccine distribution. Clinical tools were developed for improved conversations with parents, which helped sustain childhood immunization as a social norm. Coverage increased for vaccines to protect adolescents against pertussis, meningococcal meningitis, and human papillomavirus-associated cancers. NCIRD programs supported outbreak response for new respiratory pathogens and oversaw response of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to the 2009 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic. Other national public health institutes might also find closer linkages between epidemiology, laboratory, and immunization programs useful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the Pieter Bruegel the Elder (c.1525-1569) the largest of the 41 surviving paintings ''The Wine of Saint Martin’s Day'' (1565-1568) presented at the Spanish national art museum Museo del Prado. According to the author, the masterwork could be interpreted as a metaphor for prevention of respiratory infections. Comments from art critic Michael Kimmelman are included.

The authors comment on the opioid overdose epidemic in the U.S. and discuss proven strategies to manage chronic pain effectively without opioids to avoid overdoses and addiction. They discuss how reforming prescribing practices can help address the epidemic and improve conditions in communities through a coordinated public health initiative.