National Immunization Awareness Month
As healthcare professionals, we have a duty to protect our patients from preventable diseases. That's why we're so passionate about National Immunization Awareness Month. August is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of vaccines and immunizations. We hope that by sharing this information, we can help save lives.
Vaccines are one of the most important tools to protect our health. They help us prevent serious and sometimes deadly diseases. Immunizations can also save lives by protecting us from diseases that can cause serious health problems. Today, there are vaccines that protect us from more than two dozen diseases. Some of these diseases, like polio and measles, used to be common in the United States. Thanks to vaccines, they are now rare. Vaccines are safe and effective. The risks from vaccines are minimal compared to the risks from the diseases they prevent.
Immunizations are not just for kids. Everyone, from infants to seniors, can benefit from vaccines. It’s important for people of all ages to be up to date on their vaccines. Make sure you and your family are up to date on your vaccines.
Here are 9 facts from the WHO, CDC, and various other health organizations:
1. Vaccines prevent millions of deaths
Timely vaccinations have prevented 2-3 million deaths from diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and measles.
2. There are 12 recommended vaccines
There are some vaccines you need every year like the flu vaccine, and others you only need once like the chickenpox vaccine.
3. Vaccines stimulate your immune system
The vaccine you receive can stimulate your immune system to create antibodies that protect you from diseases. Therefore, you can get a degree of immunity from the disease.
4. You can locate your vaccination records
You can contact your PCP, state’s health department, or other locations for your vaccine record to reduce the chances of getting vaccinated twice for the same health concern.
5. Certain shots are suggested for pregnant women
Pregnant women are recommended to get vaccinations to protect against the flu and whooping cough. By doing so, the baby can be provided immunity in the first few months of life.
6. Vaccines are thoroughly tested
Vaccines are tested vigorously to ensure the safety of individuals. They are also monitored for any adverse reactions and reported by every health department nationwide.
7. Vaccines may limit the spread of antibiotic resistance
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that vaccinating humans and animals is one way to keep them from getting infected by various diseases that would require antibiotic treatment.
8. Vaccines have nearly eradicated polio
By 1950, two vaccines had been developed to fight against the disease that paralyzed so many individuals. By the 1980s, a campaign to eradicate polio began.
9. Not everyone can get vaccinated
Some individuals can’t get vaccines due to their weakened immune systems. Therefore, it is important for those who can get vaccinated to do so to protect others.
9 facts to share during National Immunization Awareness Month. (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://www.totalwellnesshealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Immunzation-Month.pdf