National Immunization Awareness Month

The County of San Bernardino Department of Public Health proudly observes National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). NIAM is observed throughout the month of August. This annual observance highlights the importance and value of immunizations against vaccine preventable diseases across a lifetime. “It is never too early to start protecting your child from infectious diseases. Vaccination during pregnancy provides protection for yourself and your baby by passing protective antibodies, such as those received from the Tdap vaccine.” said Maxwell Ohikhuare, M.D., County of San Bernardino Health Officer. “Vaccines are recommended throughout one’s lifetime based on age, lifestyle, occupation, locations of travel, medical conditions and previous vaccination history to help you stay healthy.” National Immunization Awareness Month focuses on four weekly themes: - Back to School (August 10-16) - Immunizations create a shield of protection at school and at home. Children 4 to 6 years of age are due boosters of four vaccines: DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), chickenpox, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and polio. Starting at 11 to 12 years of age children are due for Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), MCV4 (meningococcal conjugate vaccine) and HPV (human papilloma virus) vaccines. - Off to the Future (August 17-23) - Getting ready for college means making sure you are up to date on all recommended vaccines. Some diseases can spread quickly in settings like college dorms and classrooms, many colleges and universities have vaccination requirements for school entry. - Not Just for Kids (August 24-30) – Immunizations are especially important for adults 60 years of age and older, and for those who have a chronic condition such as asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), diabetes or heart disease. Now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment with your medical provider to ensure that you and your family have all of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended immunizations. Both children and adults need timely immunizations to protect themselves and their communities from vaccine preventable diseases. For clinic locations or to schedule an appointment with the County of San Bernardino Department of Public Health clinics, call 1-800-722-4777, Monday - Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or visit www.sbcounty.gov/dph.