National Immunization Awareness Month is a reminder that we all need vaccines throughout our lives
(Wampsville, NY – Aug. 2014) Back-to-school season is here. It’s time for parents to gather supplies and back packs. It’s also the perfect time to make sure your kids are up to date on their vaccines.
To celebrate the importance of immunizations throughout life – and make sure children are protected with all the vaccines they need – the Madison County Health Department is joining with partners nationwide in recognizing August as National Immunization Awareness Month.
“Getting children all of the vaccines recommended by CDC’s immunization schedule is one of the most important things parents can do to protect their children’s health – and that of classmates and the community,” said Cheryl Geiler, Director of Community Health. “If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to check with your doctor to find out what vaccines your child needs.”
New York State requires schools to ensure students have the required immunizations to protect the health of all students. Be sure to your children’s vaccines are up-to-date before school starts to ensure they do not get sent home for not having the shots they need.
Today’s childhood vaccines protect against serious and potentially life-threatening diseases, including polio, measles, and whooping cough.
When children are not vaccinated, they are at increased risk and can spread diseases to others in their classrooms and community – including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated, and people with weakened immune systems due to cancer or other health conditions.
School-age children need vaccines. For example, children who are 4 to 6 years old are due for boosters of four vaccines: DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), chickenpox, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and polio. Older children, like preteens and teens, need Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), MenACWY (meningococcal conjugate vaccine) and HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccines when they are 11 to 12. In addition, yearly flu vaccines are recommended for all children 6 months and older.
Parents can find out more about the recommended immunization schedule at
www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/index.html.
Upcoming clinics will be held by appointment at the Madison County Health Department at 138 N. Court St., Building 5 in Wampsville.
September 3 (Wednesday) from 9:00-11:00 am
September 5 (Friday) from 8:30-11:30 am
September 12 (Friday) from 12:30-3:30 pm
To schedule an appointment at a Madison County Health Department Immunization Clinic, visit www.healthymadisoncounty.org or call 315-366-2848.