Infectious IDeas
You are listening to Infectious IDeas, a podcast presented by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), that goes beyond the science to explore the personal stories behind the people who do the work. Each episode features thought-provoking conversations with inspiring leaders and humble heroes making a powerful impact on public health. Through their experiences, we uncover the human side of infectious disease prevention and treatment—all driven by a shared vision of healthier lives for all.
Infectious IDeas
A Lifelong Champion of Vaccine Safety—Kathryn M. Edwards, MD
Join Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, and William Schaffner, MD, for an inspiring conversation with Kathryn M. Edwards, MD, a renowned expert in childhood respiratory diseases and vaccine safety. Edwards shares her journey from a budding chemist to a trailblazer in the prevention of pediatric infectious diseases and an advocate for ensuring vaccine safety and efficacy in the US.
Show notes
While at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, her passion for disease prevention brought her to lead efforts evaluating vaccines against pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), influenza (flu), pneumococcal disease, smallpox, anthrax, and other infectious diseases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she served on vaccine safety and monitoring committees and helped address questions about adverse events. In 2018, NFID recognized her extraordinary accomplishments by awarding her the Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement.
A native of Williamsburg, IA, Edwards graduated from the University of Iowa School of Medicine, and did her residency, fellowship, and postdoctoral training in Chicago, IL. Now (mostly) retired, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her beloved grandchildren.
