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National Immunizations Awareness Month

Vaccine Kid.jpg  August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This annual         observance highlights the importance of getting recommended vaccines throughout    your life. Vaccination plays a major role in preventing serious, and sometimes fatal illnesses. They are important to everyone of all ages, genders, ethinic and financial backgrounds.

By receiving an immunization for a disease, a person defends against catching that disease. The benefits don’t stop there. Society gains collective immunization as more people become immune to a particular disease. After a collective immunization has been established, once-dangerous diseases can be eradicated. 

 

The past year and a half has been rocky. The COVID-19 pandemic rocked our world and we’re fortunate enough to have developed a vaccine. However, there is still work to be done. According to the CDC, 50% of U.S. adults have yet to be vaccinated for COVID-19 as of August 2021. 

As the pandemic continues to be a major focus, we can’t forget about the influenza virus, a.k.a the flu. The symptoms of COVID-19 are very similar to those of the flu, making it difficult to tell the difference between the two based solely on symptoms. Contracting the flu and COVID-19 at the same time could be even more dangerous than having either of these illnesses alone.

Vaccination is the best protection against vaccine-preventable diseases. But that doesn’t mean one can’t get or spread diseases and illnesses just because they are vaccinated. We ask that you continue taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your health and the health of everyone around you. Practice good hygiene, engage in safe interactions, eat well, and get adequate sleep. 

We at Southwest Community Health Center believe in the importance of immunizations. Across all populations in the United States, immunization is the most cost-effective means of preventing diseases. Take care of yourself, and let the vaccines take care of the diseases.

If you have more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please do not hesitate to call 203.330.6000 to speak with our team.