National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States. This year, NIIW will be observed April 23-30.
During this week, the Health District would like to remind everyone of the critical role vaccinations play in safeguarding our infants and children. Infants are particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases; that is why it is critical to protect them through immunizations. Each day, nearly 12,000 babies are born in the United States, and all of them will need to be immunized against 14 vaccine-preventable diseases before the age of two.
Vaccines are among the most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death. They not only help protect vaccinated individuals, but also help protect entire communities by preventing and reducing the spread of infectious diseases. Because of the success of vaccines in preventing disease, parents are often unaware that their infants and children are at risk for so many serious and life-threatening diseases.
Vaccine-preventable diseases still circulate in the United States and around the world, so continued vaccination is necessary to protect everyone from potential outbreaks. One example of the seriousness of vaccine-preventable diseases was the California Pertussis (whooping cough) epidemic of 2010, which resulted in the death of 10 infants. Nationally, more than 20,000 cases of the Pertussis were reported in 2010.
Vaccines are extremely safe and thoroughly tested before being approved for public use and monitored carefully by doctors, researchers and public health officials.
Do you know if your infant or child is up-to-date with their immunizations? This is the perfect time to check with their health care provider.
The Clermont County General Health District offers low cost immunization clinics for children in various locations throughout Clermont County. A $10 fee is requested per child for each visit, but no child (18 years of age or younger) is turned away due to inability to pay. For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact us.
Updated: 04/22/2011 B.Warren