National Immunization Awareness Month is a reminder that we all need vaccines right from the start and throughout our lives. Immunizations are a safe and proven way to protect children from 14 serious and potentially deadly diseases before they turn two years old. To celebrate the importance of immunizations for a healthy start and throughout our lives – and to make sure children are protected with all the vaccines they need – Pocahontas Memorial Hospital Rural Health Clinic is joining with partners nationwide in recognizing August as National Immunization Awareness Month. The theme for this week, “A Healthy Start,” will focus specifically on protecting babies from birth through age two. “Children who don’t receive recommended vaccines are at risk of getting the disease or illness, and of having a severe case,” said Jackie Wright, Registered Nurse and Director of Primary Care at PMH. “Every dose of every vaccine is important to protect your child and others in the community from infectious diseases. Talk to your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up-to-date on all the vaccines he or she needs.” Today’s childhood vaccines protect against serious and potentially life-threatening diseases, including polio, measles, whooping cough and chickenpox. There are many important reasons to make sure your child is vaccinated: • Immunizations can protect your child from 14 serious diseases before they turn two years old. • Vaccination is very safe and effective. • Immunizations can protect others you care about. • Immunization can save your family time and money. • Immunization protects future generations by reducing the prevalence of serious diseases. • When children are not vaccinated, they are at increased risk and can spread diseases to others in their family and community – including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated, and people with weakened immune systems due to cancer and other health conditions. The Rural Health Clinic offers a full family practice, including children’s care. To schedule an appointment to discuss vaccinations and make sure your child is protected, please call us today at 304-799-6200.
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