National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is observed in August to highlight the importance of immunizations for all ages. Help us protect children by doing what you can to get kids caught up on recommended vaccines. CDC’s public sector vaccine ordering data shows a 14% drop in 2020-2021 compared to 2019, and measles vaccine ordering is down by more than 20%. State and local vaccination requirements serve to protect students against vaccine-preventable diseases. The COVID pandemic greatly affected immunization rates as many parents delayed routine check ups and vaccinations. The CDC issues a call to action regarding the decrease in immunization rates. Healthcare providers are encouraged to identify those who are delayed on immunizations and contact those families to schedule an appointment with their healthcare provider for a well child check up and vaccination catch up. Schools are encouraged to send reminders and updates to those who are behind. We all need to help spread awareness about the importance of vaccinations.
COVID vaccine
The CDC recommends a COVID vaccine for all children ages 6 months and older. We also recommend a booster for all children over the age of 5. The benefits of the COVID vaccine include decreasing the risk of severe disease, less likelihood of being hospitalized or death due to COVID. COVID vaccines have been found to be safe and effective in reducing hospitalization and the risk for severe disease. VPCHC offers COVID vaccines to those ages 6 months and up.
Key Talking Points
The COVID vaccine may be administered with other vaccines. The COVID vaccine is safe an effective and is your best bet to decrease severity, hospitalization or death. Work with your healthcare professional to make sure all your child’s vaccinations are up to date. You have the power to protect against vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccines are safe and effective in preventing serious diseases. Vaccine-preventable diseases are still a threat and up to date vaccinations are your best defense.
Conclusion
VPCHC or any healthcare office can provide further information regarding vaccine availability, insurance coverage, and what vaccines are recommended/required. All the above immunizations are available at any VPCHC site. Please contact your healthcare provider for any questions regarding vaccinations. Please help to spread this word in August regarding the importance and safety of vaccinations offered here in the United States. Let’s help to get those behind caught up and encourage all others to stay on the recommended schedule.
By: Leslie D. Batty, FNP
Resources
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