August is National Immunization Awareness Month
#ivax2protect
– Cynthia McReynolds, Program Manager, Immunization Initiative, Massachusetts Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (cmcreynolds@mcaap.org)
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), an annual observance highlighting the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. In recognition of NIAM, the Baker-Polito Administration has proclaimed August 2020 Immunization Awareness Month to remind Massachusetts’ residents about the importance of immunization.
Efforts to reduce the transmission of COVID-19, such as stay-at-home and shelter-in-place orders, have led to a decrease in routine preventive medical services, including immunizations. The resulting decline in immunization during the pandemic has put children, adults and communities at risk for preventable diseases and outbreaks.
While signs of recovery from pandemic-related disruptions to routine medical care and vaccination have recently been observed, ensuring that your family is up to date on your vaccinations is essential for protecting you and your community. Healthcare provider offices are open and are taking extra precautions to ensure that you are safe during your visit.
You have the power to protect against vaccine preventable diseases! Your family’s health is important to you and vaccines are vital for keeping you and your family healthy. You may have questions about the vaccines that are recommended for your family. As a trusted resource, your healthcare provider can answer your questions. Contact your provider with any concerns or questions, and to confirm that you are up to date on your vaccinations.
In observance of NIAM, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will host an Instagram Q&A for parents of young children on August 24th, from 12-2pm EDT. CDC experts will provide real-time answers to questions about keeping up with childhood vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tune in on CDC’s Instagram feed (Best viewed in Edge or Chrome).
While we are hopeful that a COVID-19 vaccine will be available soon, we can protect ourselves today by being up to date on the recommended vaccines. With the 2020-2021 influenza season approaching, protecting vulnerable populations and reducing burdens on the healthcare system through influenza vaccination will be critical. Contact your provider today to schedule a flu vaccination appointment.
Thank you for your part in ensuring that our communities are healthy and free from vaccine preventable diseases!
Helpful CDC Resources:
Growing Up with Vaccines, What Parents Should Know
2020 Recommended Vaccinations for Children from Birth Through 6 Years Old