Promoting immunization awareness

In August, families are preparing for a new school year, students are leaving for college, and health care professionals are getting ready for the upcoming flu season. 
This makes August an ideal time to remind the community about the value of immunizations. The National Partnership for Immunization designated August National Immunization Awareness Month, seeking to increase awareness of the importance of vaccinations. Immunizations improve the health and quality of life for persons of all ages, and are essential to reducing viruses that may become life-threatening.
Vaccines have reduced or in some cases eliminated many infectious diseases that were once common in this country. Immunizations wiped out smallpox in 1979 and significantly reduced the incidence of measles, tetanus, influenza, mumps, and Hepatitis B. Despite these efforts, each year thousands of people in the U.S. die from vaccine-preventable diseases. 
Getting immunized is a lifelong effort. Regardless of age, sex, or race, vaccinations should begin soon after birth and continue throughout life. Being aware of the vaccines and ensuring we receive the correct immunizations are critical to protecting ourselves and our communities against the spread of disease.
Because children are particularly vulnerable to infection, most vaccines are given during the first five to six years of life. Other immunizations are recommended during adolescent and adult years, while others are recommended throughout life. By staying up-to-date on the recommended vaccines, individuals can protect themselves, their families and friends, and their communities from serious, life-threatening infections.
Until we completely eliminate a disease, we must continue to vaccinate against it. In the late 1980s, immunization rates against measles dropped severely. As a result, 11,000 people were hospitalized and hundreds died because of measles.  Since this incident, vaccinations have steadily increased, and today, the U.S. only has 100 cases of measles each year. This example continues to serve as a reminder; we must remain vigilant to protect ourselves against serious, sometimes life-threatening diseases. 
For more information on Missouri’s immunization requirements for school attendance or a Missouri immunization record card call Missouri’s Department of Health and Senior Services at 573-751-6400 or visit their web site at www.dhss.mo.gov/Immunizations/Records.html. Information on childhood, adolescent, and adult immunization schedules are available by calling the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention at 1-800-232-4636 or by visiting www.cdc.gov/vaccines.