The month of August is National Immunization Awareness Month or NIAM and was established as such in 2013 by the National Public Health Information Coalition. Later on, it would be coordinated with the CDC to promote the importance of vaccinating people in all age groups, especially the elderly and infants. The goal of Immunization Awareness Month is to increase awareness of the importance of vaccines and the role they play in preventing serious and deadly diseases.
The Importance of Vaccines
So, who needs vaccines? Some would say the answer to that is everyone! As was mentioned above, the key to getting vaccinated is to protect individuals against the more serious and even life-threatening diseases, some of which still exist and have been evidenced by occasional outbreaks. Vaccines are considered very safe by physicians and other healthcare experts, all of whom recommend them throughout our lives. During this time, the National Health Council recommends that you discuss this with your doctor or healthcare specialist.
Children and Vaccines
One of the most important and significant things you can do for your child to protect their health is to get them vaccinated according to the recommended schedule. Children who aren’t vaccinated are at an increased risk for disease and spreading it to other children in classrooms, daycare centers, and play groups. This includes infants who are too young for immunization and individuals with compromised or weakened immune systems. Plus, vaccinating infants protects them from 14 different diseases.
Pre-teens / Teens and Vaccines
Children can attend middle school, high school, and college when parents make sure that their vaccines are current. There are 4 vaccines that pre-teens and teens need for protection against serious diseases. These include annual flu vaccinations, HPV vaccines, quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine, and Tdap vaccines. With the pandemic raging on, getting the COVID-19 vaccines have become an important aspect of staying well.
Other Groups and Vaccines
Adolescents and Adults should have their immunization needs assessed by their doctor or other healthcare providers. Certain vaccines are recommended based on the age of the individual, health condition, and occupation. Pregnant women need certain vaccinations for a healthy pregnancy, especially flu vaccines and MMR (measles, mumps, and) rubella vaccines. Even if they received the recommended vaccines when they were younger, Seniors may need one or more, especially if they are traveling.
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