Back-to-school time is the perfect time for parents to make sure their children are up to date on their vaccines.
To make sure children are protected with all the vaccines they need as they go back to school, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) is joining with partners nationwide in recognizing August as National Immunization Awareness Month.
“Getting children all of the vaccines recommended by CDC’s immunization schedule is one of the most important things parents can do to protect their children from serious diseases,” Jackie Anderson, immunization coordinator for the health department, said.
“If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to check with your child’s doctor to find out what vaccines your child needs.”
Vaccines protect children, preteens and teens from 16 serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. When children are not vaccinated, they are at increased risk for diseases and can also spread diseases to others in their classrooms and community, including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated and people with weakened immune systems due to cancer or other health conditions.
The health department urges parents to talk to their child’s doctor to find out which vaccines are recommended for them before going back to school, or visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents. For vaccination appointments at BEDHD, call (517) 541-2630 in Eaton County and (269) 798-4133 in Barry County.