CHENANGO COUNTY – August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This annual observance highlights the importance of getting recommended vaccines throughout your life.

During NIAM, the Chenango County Department of Health encourages you to talk to your doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider to protect you and your family against serious diseases by getting caught up on routine vaccination.

The viruses and bacteria that cause vaccine-preventable diseases still exist and can be passed on to people who are not protected. Vaccines have greatly reduced infectious diseases that once routinely killed or harmed many infants, children, and adults in the United States. Vaccinating your family is the safest and most cost-effective way to protect your family against these serious diseases. Vaccines are thoroughly tested before licensing and carefully monitored even after being licensed to ensure they are safe.

As children head back to school this fall, it’s particularly important for parents to work with their child’s provider to ensure they catch up on well-child visits and recommended vaccines. But vaccines aren’t just for children. They are recommended throughout our lives based on age, lifestyle, occupation, and travel destinations; certain factors (such as health conditions) may put you at a higher risk of getting some diseases or more serious illnesses if you get sick. So, take care of yourself too! Make sure to receive any vaccines you need to stay healthy. Use CDC’s adult vaccine assessment tool to see which vaccines might be right for you. https://www2.cdc.gov/nip/adultimmsched/

If your health insurance doesn’t cover vaccines, there are programs available to help. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides vaccines to eligible children at no cost. This program provides free vaccines to children who are Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, underinsured, or American Indian/Alaska Native. Check with your child’s doctor or nurse to see if they are a VFC provider. A Vaccine for Adults (VFA) program is available at the Chenango County Department of Public Health for uninsured or underinsured adults aged 19 and older. You can call Public Health for more information about the VFA program at 607-337-1660.

During NIAM, the will be sharing information and resources on social media to highlight the importance of vaccines. Help us spread the word! Follow the conversation on www.facebook.com/ChenangoLHD and use #ivax2protect to share why you choose to vaccinate.

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

- Information from Chenango County Department of Public Health