William Schaffner, MD

William Schaffner, MD, professor of preventive medicine and infectious diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville.

Pneumonia Is Still a Threat

Pneumonia Is Still a Threat

William Schaffner, MD | December 8, 2022

With all the attention on COVID and influenza, it’s easy to forget that pneumonia is a serious health threat. An…

Your Adult Vaccination Checklist

Your Adult Vaccination Checklist

William Schaffner, MD | November 7, 2022

We all are weary of the constant messaging to get COVID-19 vaccines—but that doesn’t make the need for immunizations for…

Do Adults Need a Measles Shot?

Do Adults Need a Measles Shot?

William Schaffner, MD | May 17, 2019

With the recent measles outbreak, many adults are now questioning whether they are at risk. Here are the people who may need the vaccine…

The Bottom Line Guide to Outliving the Flu
Respiratory

The Bottom Line Guide to Outliving the Flu

William Schaffner, MD | December 17, 2018

Despite best efforts, you’re now sidelined with the flu. Take these quick steps to speed the journey to feeling better.

How to Steer Clear of the Flu—and If You Do Get It, Recover Quickly

How to Steer Clear of the Flu—and If You Do Get It, Recover Quickly

William Schaffner, MD | December 10, 2018

The best tips for prevention and treatment from an expert on infectious diseases and an integrative medicine expert.

What If You Forgot Whether You Got a Vaccination?
Wellness

What If You Forgot Whether You Got a Vaccination?

William Schaffner, MD | October 25, 2018

Can’t remember if you got a pneumonia or shingles or other vaccination? Here’s what to do…

2018–2019 Flu Season Alert: Vaccine Choices to Consider

2018–2019 Flu Season Alert: Vaccine Choices to Consider

William Schaffner, MD | September 18, 2018

It’s already time to protect yourself from this year’s flu. Here’s how to match your needs to the available vaccines.

My Dog Bit My Hand—What Should I Do?

My Dog Bit My Hand—What Should I Do?

William Schaffner, MD | August 16, 2018

Just because it’s your own pet doesn’t mean you should ignore the serious dangers of any dog bite.

Don’t Let the Flu Turn into Pneumonia

Don’t Let the Flu Turn into Pneumonia

William Schaffner, MD | December 13, 2017

The flu can lead to pneumonia. It's a dangerous, sometimes deadly, combination. Learn how to prevent it.

The Nasal Flu Vaccine Doesn’t Work

The Nasal Flu Vaccine Doesn’t Work

William Schaffner, MD | August 22, 2016

An advisory committee at the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that the nasal flu vaccine…

What’s the Best Time to Get a Flu Shot?

What’s the Best Time to Get a Flu Shot?

William Schaffner, MD | September 9, 2015

By mid-September, the signs advertising flu shots were already in your local drugstore and your doctor’s office. Some doctors recommend waiting…or…

New Deadly HIV Is Approaching as STDs Climb in Seniors

New Deadly HIV Is Approaching as STDs Climb in Seniors

William Schaffner, MD | May 1, 2015

You might think that we’re long past the HIV/AIDS epidemic, but a new, especially virulent form of HIV has hit…

Beating the Flu Just Became Easier

Beating the Flu Just Became Easier

William Schaffner, MD | October 28, 2014

Mention the subject of flu vaccination in a group discussion and at least one person will swear that he or…

Your Church or Synagogue Can Make You Sick

Your Church or Synagogue Can Make You Sick

William Schaffner, MD | February 13, 2014

I certainly don’t mean to cast aspersions on anyone’s religious practices, but I do want to caution you about the…

Flu-Fighting Facts That May Surprise You

Flu-Fighting Facts That May Surprise You

William Schaffner, MD | January 17, 2014

The flu is an illness that you hear so much about year after year that it's easy to assume you…

The Best Advice I Ever Got

The Best Advice I Ever Got

Yogi Berra | October 3, 2013

Very successful people share their secrets Think big, plan carefully and execute perfectly. That advice helped guide Martin Edelston when…

The New Four-Strain Flu Vaccine: Is It Right for You?

The New Four-Strain Flu Vaccine: Is It Right for You?

William Schaffner, MD | September 26, 2013

Have you heard? There’s a new type of flu vaccine that guards against four strains of flu rather than just…

The Next Wave of Swine Flu

The Next Wave of Swine Flu

William Schaffner, MD | August 10, 2012

...and How to Protect Yourself More than one million Americans are believed to have contracted the swine flu (H1N1) since…

When Strep Throat Moves to Your Toes (and Other Limbs)
Diseases & Conditions

When Strep Throat Moves to Your Toes (and Other Limbs)

William Schaffner, MD | August 9, 2012

When I read about the three recent cases of flesh-eating bacteria in the Southeast, I was, of course, concerned. How,…

Will Swine Flu Grow More Deadly?

Will Swine Flu Grow More Deadly?

William Schaffner, MD | January 2, 2012

Americas top infectious disease expert answers your questions: The media still are reporting new cases of swine flu (H1N1), particularly…