Infants and children are particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases.  Therefore, it is essential that children be protected by getting all of the recommended immunizations (shots) to protect against serious diseases.  National Infant Immunization Week is recognized during the week of April 21 – April 28, 2018.

Immunizations protect the individual as well as families and communities. Children who are not immunized increase their risk of disease, as well as the risk to others.  In the United States, we can protect children against fourteen (14) different diseases before the age of two.

This health observance helps to remind and encourage all parents to consult with their health care provider to ensure that their children are up-to-date on their shots.  Health care professionals remain parents’ most trusted source of information about vaccines for their children.  While there may be some minor side effects from immunizations, all licensed vaccines are rigorously monitored for efficiency and safety.

Take time during National Infant Immunization Week to be certain your child is up-to-date on their immunizations. For more information about vaccine preventable diseases and the importance of immunizations, contact your health care provider, the Onondaga County Health Department at 315-435-2000, or visit the CDC Immunization website at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/index.html.