August is National Immunization Awareness Month

Immunization helps prevent dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases. To stay protected against serious illnesses such as the flu, measles, pneumonia, and other diseases, children and adults need to get their immunizations.

National Immunization Awareness Month is a great time to promote the importance of vaccines and to remind each other to stay up to date on recommended vaccinations.

How can National Immunization Awareness Month make a difference?

Everyone can use this month to raise awareness about vaccines and share strategies to increase immunization rates within our communities.

Here are a few ideas:

• Discuss with your family how vaccines are for everyone regardless of age. People of all ages can get shots to protect them from serious diseases.
• Encourage everyone you know to get the flu vaccine every year to prevent the spread during the flu season.
• Invite a healthcare professional to speak to parents about why it’s important for all children to get vaccinated.

To find out more about the importance of immunizations and how you can promote National Immunization Awareness month, please visit:

http://healthfinder.gov/NHO/Augusttoolkit.aspx#badges
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niam.html