National Immunization Awareness Month recognized in August

August is recognized as National Immunization Awareness Month and St. Francis Hospital and HSHS Medical Group is reminding the community that immunizations are important for people of all ages.
 
National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) was established to encourage people to stay up to date on vaccines recommended for them. NIAM also encourages parents to make sure their children are vaccinated and ready for the upcoming school year. 
 
“In all stages of life, vaccinations are important,” said Dr. Kate Endicott, HSHS Medical Group family medicine physician. “Whether it is during pregnancy, as an infant or as an adult, the best way to protect your health now and in the future is by keeping up to date with your vaccinations.”
 
In addition to routine vaccinations, the COVID-19 vaccine is the best defense against this illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the benefit of receiving your COVID-19 vaccination is that it is effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized and even dying from COVID-19. If you or your child are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, St. Francis Hospital and HSHS Medical Group encourage you to get it.
 
To find locations offering COVID-19 vaccines, visit vaccines.gov/search or contact your local health department to schedule a vaccination.

It is important to note that vaccination not only protects the person receiving the vaccine, but it also helps prevent the spread of disease to those who are particularly most vulnerable to serious illnesses, such as infants, young children, the elderly and those with chronic conditions and weakened immune systems. 
 
To learn more about immunizations, vaccine schedules or well-child checkups, visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines. To locate a primary care provider, visit www.hshs.org/find-a-doctor.