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The West Virginia Immunization Program is announcing August as National
Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM).
The goal of NIAM is to increase awareness about immunizations across the life
span, from infants to the elderly. Immunization is one of the most significant public health
achievements of the 20th century. Vaccines have eradicated smallpox, eliminated
naturally-occurring polio in the U.S. and significantly reduced the number of cases of
measles, diphtheria, rubella, pertussis and other diseases. But despite these efforts,
today tens of thousands of people in the U.S. still die from these and other vaccine preventable
diseases.
August is the perfect time to remind family, friends, co-workers, and those in the
community to catch up on their vaccinations. Parents are enrolling their children in school,
students are entering college, and healthcare workers are preparing for the upcoming flu
season.
West Virginia has 383 health care provider sites including county health
departments, community health centers, school based health centers and private
practitioners that participate in the Vaccines for Children Program which ensures
immunizations for all children that may not otherwise be able to receive them due to
financial barriers.
Vaccines offer safe and effective protection from infectious diseases. By staying
up-to-date on the recommended vaccines, individuals can protect themselves, their
families and friends and their communities from serious, life-threatening diseases.
Awareness is the first step in protecting yourself. If you need further information,
contact your physician, local health department or the West Virginia Immunization
Program at (800) 642-3634. | 
