Parents agree that establishing schedules for eating and sleeping are important for keeping their children healthy. The same goes for childhood immunizations. National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is an annual event that highlights the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and the success of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States.
“Vaccinating children on time before their second birthday is the best way to protect them against 14 serious and potentially deadly diseases,” said Mindy Schwarz, Public Health Nurse for Lincoln County Health Department. “The recommended vaccine schedule protects babies early in life, when they are vulnerable.”
Public health and medical experts base their vaccine recommendations on many factors. They study information about diseases and vaccines very carefully to decide which vaccines kids should get and when they should get them for best protection.
Although the number of vaccines a child needs in the first two years may seem like a lot, health care providers know a great deal about the human immune system, and they know that a healthy baby’s immune system can handle getting all vaccines when they are recommended. Schwarz, cautions against parents delaying vaccination. “There is no known benefit to delaying vaccination. Staying on track with the immunization schedule ensures that children have the best protection against diseases.”
During the week of April 16-April 23, 2016 the Lincoln County Health Department will observe NIIW and promote vaccinations for infants, children and adults. To celebrate, call the Lincoln County Health Department at 715-536-0307 and have your immunization record checked to see if you are up-to-date with recommended vaccines.
Lincoln County Health Department reminds residents that we offer monthly immunization clinics by appointment only in Merrill (at the Health Department) every second Tuesday from 12-1 p.m. and third Wednesday from 3–4:30 p.m. for those eligible. For more information on immunizations or to make an appointment, contact the Lincoln County Health Department at 715-536-0307.
For more information about Lincoln County Health Department’s programs and services, visit lincolncountyhealthdepartment.com or find us on Facebook. Lincoln County Health Department is always working for a safer and healthier Lincoln County.