National Infant Immunization Week is an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting
infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs in
promoting healthy communities throughout the nation.
This week marks the 20th anniversary of both NIIW and the Vaccines for Children program, which provides
vaccines for children who might otherwise not be vaccinated because of their caregiver’s inability to
pay.
The vaccines are free, but there is a $10 administration fee. To schedule an appointment, contact the
Wood County Community Health and Wellness Center at 419-354-9049.
"With current outbreaks of mumps and measles in central Ohio, there is no better time to stress the
importance of vaccination. Prevention is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family from
these vaccine-preventable diseases," said Nikki Brue, epidemiologist for the Wood County Health
District.
Parents agree that feeding and sleep schedules are important to help keep their children healthy. The
same goes for childhood immunizations. Vaccinating children on time is the best way to protect them
against 14 serious and potentially deadly diseases before their second birthday.
Public health and medical experts base their vaccine recommendations on many factors. They study
information about diseases and vaccines 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, doctors 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.
When parents choose not to vaccinate or to follow a delayed schedule, children are left unprotected
against diseases that still circulate in this country, like measles and whooping cough.
In 2011, 222 people were reported to have measles in the United States-that’s more than any year since
1996. Staying on track with the immunization schedule ensures that children have the best protection
against diseases like these by age two.
Parents who are concerned about the number of shots given at one time can reduce the number given at a
visit by using the flexibility built into the recommended immunization schedule. For example, the third
dose of hepatitis B vaccine can be given at 6 through 18 months of age.
Leslie Madaras, public health nurse for the immunization program at the Wood County Health District,
stresses that "it’s never too late to vaccinate," adding, "If you have questions about
vaccines and the childhood immunization schedule, talk with your child’s health care provider."
For more information about vaccines, go to www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents.