August is National Immunization Awareness Month Published Aug. 5, 2010 By Staff Sgt. Lori McCarty 66th Medical Squadron HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- During August, parents are enrolling their children in school, students are entering college and healthcare workers are preparing for the upcoming flu season. This makes August, National Immunization Awareness Month, the perfect time to remind family, friends, co-workers and those in the community to catch up on vaccinations. Vaccines offer safe and effective protection from infectious diseases. By staying up-to-date with the recommended vaccines, individuals can protect themselves, their families and friends and their communities from serious life-threatening infections. Vaccines are responsible for the control of many infectious diseases that were once common in this country. They have reduced, and in some cases, eliminated many diseases that once killed or harmed tens of thousands of infants, children and adults. Recommended vaccinations begin soon after birth and continue throughout life. It's important to get the right vaccines in the right doses at the right time. Being aware of the vaccines that are recommended for infants, children, adolescents, adults of all ages and seniors ensures that everyone receives these immunizations on schedule. On www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4050.pdf one can find vaccines recommended for children and teens. Further information on National Immunization Awareness month can be found at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niam/default.htm and www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=52750. For questions regarding immunizations, please contact Staff Sgt. Lori McCarty at (781) 377-3531.