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National Immunization Awareness Month
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), an important reminder of our collective responsibility towards public health. This annual observance, created by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), highlights the importance of vaccination for people of all ages and raises awareness about the crucial role vaccines play in preventing serious illnesses and saving lives.
NIAM serves to educate individuals and communities about the benefits of immunization. Vaccines are essential for personal protection against common and serious diseases that harmed or killed babies, children and adults. Vaccines also contribute significantly to herd immunity, which shields those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons or age-related vulnerabilities.
NIAM emphasizes staying up-to-date with vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities. At Whittier Street Health Center, we offer all standard vaccines including against influenza, COVID-19, RSV, hepatitis A and B, varicella (chicken pox), and measles, mumps, and rubella. For newcomers without documentation of previous vaccination, blood samples can be taken to determine which vaccines have already been administered.
In recent years, there has been an increase in misinformation about the safety of vaccines on social media, so it is crucial to rely on trusted sources of information to make informed decisions about vaccination. Whittier’s staff are trained to provide culturally competent and accurate information to our diverse community, fostering open dialogue between patient and provider and building confidence in vaccination.
By observing National Immunization Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities from preventable diseases by getting vaccinated. Let’s use this month to advocate for vaccination, ensuring a healthier future for all!