Category: Health & Wellness

Health & Wellness

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared August to be National Immunization
Awareness Month (NIAM) with the hopes of educating people about the benefits of immunizations.

Although babies are born with a certain level of immunity to many diseases, this immunity does not last very long. Immunizing your child helps to protect him or her from contracting and spreading certain diseases. Many of these diseases can be life-threatening; a simple injection or oral medication can virtually eliminate your child’s risk of developing these diseases.

Although there are some risks associated with immunizations, the benefits to your children and your
children’s children far outweigh the risks. Immunization not only helps to keep your children healthy, it helps to control the spread of some contagious diseases, ensuring the safety of future generations. Talk to your child’s pediatrician about any concerns that you have about immunizations.

Many vaccines can be given during a single doctor’s visit, and multiple vaccines can be given in a single
injection. The CDC recommends the following childhood immunizations:

Hepatitis B (HepB): This vaccination protects against Hepatitis B, a highly contagious virus that can
lead to diseases of the liver. The vaccine is given in a series of three doses.

Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTaP): This vaccination protects against diphtheria, lockjaw and
whooping cough. The vaccine is given in a series of five doses, all of which should be administered
before your child enrolls in grade school. Boosters should be given every 10 years for children and
adults.

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): This vaccination protects against one strain of bacteria
responsible for meningitis. The vaccine is given in a series of three doses and a booster.

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR): This vaccination protects against measles, mumps and German
measles. The vaccine is given in a series of two doses, both of which should be administered before
your child enrolls in grade school.

Varicella: This vaccination protects against chickenpox. The vaccine is given in one dose to children
and in two doses to older children and adults who have not had chickenpox.

Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV): This vaccination protects against the bacteria responsible for
pneumonia, blood infections and bacterial meningitis. The vaccine is given in a series of four doses.

Inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV): This vaccination protects against polio. The vaccine is given in a
series of four doses, all of which should be administered before your child enrolls in grade school.

Your child’s school or pediatrician, depending on the needs of your situation, may recommend other
vaccines. Make sure you consult with your child’s doctor for more information and to develop an
immunization schedule that meets your needs.

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