August is known as National Immunization Awareness Month, commonly referred to as NIAM. Although it is not recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they do support the effort to bring awareness to the forefront of the importance of immunizations for all age groups. August is also a good time to remind parents to get the immunizations children will need for the school year.
States differ somewhat in what immunizations are required for children to enter school. It is best to contact your school district to find out what immunizations are required for your state. Most states require vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis (for both A & B), polio, varicella, diphtheria, pertussis, as well as an MMR vaccination (mumps, measles, and rubella). Some states also require pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines before going to school.
After starting school, there are other vaccinations that are recommended. Every year, everyone over the age of 6 months should get a shot for influenza. This should continue, as the flu can be a very serious illness, and your child can be protected during flu season with immunization. When your child turns 11 or 12, the HPV vaccine is recommended to protect against the Human Papillomavirus. It is definitely recommended for girls, and there is a debate now as to whether boys should also get this vaccination.
Immunizations don’t stop when we reach adulthood. As stated before, everyone should be vaccinated yearly against the influenza virus. Adults with illnesses, especially with respiratory issues, should make it a point to get the vaccination yearly, and in plenty of time before flu season. Adults should also keep up with their tetanus shots be sure they don’t not get a painful disease called “lock-jaw,” which is a very serious illness that attacks the muscles. This vaccination is required every ten years.
For the elderly, immunizations are just as important as for infants because their immune systems are not strong. Aside from the above mentioned vaccines, an elderly person would need a vaccine against pneumococcal disease. This disease can attack the blood stream, as well as cause pneumonia or meningitis. Any of these forms it takes can prove fatal to an elderly person, especially someone in ill health.
Immunizations are available to everyone. They are an integral part of keeping ourselves healthy, as well as those around us. It is also more convenient than ever before because there are clinics available where you can get your vaccinations while grocery shopping or picking up a prescription.
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