National Infant Immunizations Week is April 27- May 4, 2019
Immunizations are a shared responsibility in the community. Vaccines are among the most successful and most cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death. Vaccines not only help protect our children but can also help protect entire communities by preventing and reducing the spread of infectious diseases.
National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is April 27- May 4, 2019 and Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) urges residents to speak with a health care provider or doctor to make sure their infants are up-to-date on vaccinations.
“It is very important that families ensure that their infants and young children are current on their vaccines,” said Prithi Kohle District Immunization Director. “Vaccines are their first defense against major diseases and infection they may encounter as they get older.”
NIIW is a call to action for parents, caregivers and health care providers to ensure that infants are fully vaccinated against 14 vaccine-preventable diseases.
For children who are underinsured or whose parents/guardians may not be able to afford vaccines, there is an assistance program called Vaccines for Children (VFC), which provides eligible children with vaccines according to the recommended immunization schedule, at no cost for the vaccines. This program has contributed directly to a substantial increase in childhood immunization coverage levels, making a significant contribution to the elimination of disparities in vaccination coverage among young children.
According to the CDC, the United States currently has the safest, most effective vaccine supply in its history. Scientists, doctors and health care professionals give vaccines to children only after long and careful review. The disease-prevention benefits of getting vaccines are much greater than the possible side effects for most children.
If you are unsure of your child’s vaccines status or need to get vaccines, please contact us at 770-514-2417 or visit www.cobbanddouglaspublichealth.org
About Cobb & Douglas Public Health
Cobb & Douglas Public Health, along with the Georgia Department of Public Health, has been committed to the mission of “Healthier Lives. Healthier Community.” since 1920. We are dedicated to improving our residents’ quality of life by tracking and preventing the spread of disease, promoting health and safety, providing exceptional medical services, and ensuring that our community is prepared for public health emergencies.