immunization

National Immunization Awareness Month: Protecting Ourselves, Our Families, and Our Community

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mother with vaccinated child

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), a month highlighting the significance of vaccination for individuals of all ages. Routine immunization is a cornerstone of public health, safeguarding communities from the consequences of preventable diseases.

The Power of Vaccination

Vaccines have been instrumental in eradicating or significantly reducing the spread of numerous infectious diseases. By building immunity within a population, vaccination creates a protective shield that benefits everyone, especially the most vulnerable members of our society.

The Importance of Staying Up-to-Date on Vaccinations

Staying current with recommended vaccinations is crucial for maintaining individual and community health. It’s essential to follow the immunization schedule recommended by healthcare providers.

CDC’s Let’s RISE Initiative

To bolster vaccination rates and protect public health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched the “Let’s RISE” initiative. This comprehensive program focuses on providing actionable strategies, resources, and data to support healthcare providers, public health officials, and communities in ensuring that all Americans receive the recommended vaccinations.

Protecting Our Children

Vaccines are particularly vital for children, as they offer robust protection against serious childhood illnesses. Adhering to the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule is important for safeguarding children’s health and well-being. For parents seeking detailed information on recommended vaccine schedules for children, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/schedules/index.html

Healthier Communities

By staying current with vaccinations, we can create healthier communities for ourselves, our families, our friends, and our neighbors. Let’s work together to raise awareness about the importance of immunization, build trust in vaccines, and ensure equitable access to these vital interventions.

Access Your Vaccination Record with CT WiZ

National Infant Immunization Week: Protecting Our Littlest Ones

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infant receiving vaccine

Every year in April, we celebrate National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW), a dedicated time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting infants and young children from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). This year, NIIW runs from April 22nd to 29th, 2024.

Why Vaccines Matter

Vaccines are one of the most successful and cost-effective public health tools we have. They work by exposing the body to a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacteria, which helps the body develop immunity without getting a full-blown illness. This protects not only the vaccinated child but also those around them, creating a herd immunity effect that benefits the entire community.

Focus on Staying on Track with Vaccinations

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of our lives, including well-child visits and childhood vaccinations. This NIIW, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) want to emphasize the importance of getting your child back on track with their recommended vaccinations.

Getting Back on Schedule

If your child’s vaccinations have been delayed, don’t worry! It’s not too late to catch up. Talk to your doctor about creating a plan to get your child current on their immunizations. Remember, on-time vaccination is critical for protecting against potentially life-threatening diseases like whooping cough (pertussis) and measles.

Access Your Child’s Vaccination Records

Visit the State of Connecticut Immunization Program here.

The CT WiZ Public Portal allows individuals who were vaccinated in Connecticut to access their immunization records, while parents and guardians can also access their minor child’s records.  Check your and/or your child’s immunization record here.

Together, we can ensure that all children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. This NIIW, let’s recommit to staying on track with childhood immunizations.

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