|
August 2007
National Immunization Awareness
Month
|
|
August is recognized as National Immunization Awareness
Month (NIAM). The goal of NIAM is to increase awareness
about immunizations across the life span, from infants
to the elderly.
August is the perfect time to remind family, friends,
co-workers, and those in the community to catch up on
their vaccinations. Parents are enrolling their children
in school, students are entering college, and health
care workers are preparing for the upcoming flu season.
Why are immunizations important?
Immunization is one of the most significant public
health achievements of the 20th century. Vaccines have
eradicated smallpox, eliminated wild poliovirus in the
U.S. and significantly reduced the number of cases of
measles, diphtheria, rubella, pertussis and other
diseases. But despite these efforts, today tens of
thousands of people in the U.S. still die from these and
other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Vaccines offer safe and effective protection from
infectious diseases. By staying up-to-date on the
recommended vaccines, individuals can protect
themselves, their families and friends and their
communities from serious, life-threatening infections.
Who should be immunized?
Getting immunized is a lifelong, life-protecting
community effort regardless of age, sex, race, ethnic
background or country of origin. Recommended
vaccinations begin soon after birth and continue
throughout life. Being aware of the vaccines that are
recommended for infants, children, adolescents, adults
of all ages and seniors, and making sure that we receive
these immunizations, are critical to protecting
ourselves and our communities from disease.
When are immunizations given?
Because children are particularly vulnerable to
infection, most vaccines are given during the first five
to six years of life. Other immunizations are
recommended during adolescent or adult years and, for
certain vaccines, booster immunization are recommended
throughout life. Vaccines against certain diseases that
may be encountered when traveling outside of the U.S.
are recommended for travelers to specific regions of the
world.
More Information:
Marquette
County Health Department
184 US Highway 41 East
Negaunee, Michigan 49866
(906) 475-7844 (phone)
(906) 475-4435 (fax) |
|
