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Each August, National Immunization Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that vaccines remain one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine. They have dramatically reduced — and in some cases eliminated — diseases that once caused widespread illness, disability and death
While vaccines have transformed public health, they only work when people stay up to date with the immunizations recommended for their age and health needs. That’s why National Immunization Awareness Month encourages individuals and families to review their vaccination status and speak with their healthcare providers about any vaccines they may need
Vaccination is not only about protecting yourself. It also helps safeguard infants, older adults, people with weakened immune systems and others who may be especially vulnerable to serious illness. By preventing the spread of infectious diseases, vaccines strengthen the health of entire communities
As another school year approaches, now is an ideal time for parents to make sure their children are current on their recommended immunizations. Vaccines help protect children against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis A and B, meningococcal disease, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough) and human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause several types of cancer later in life. Annual influenza vaccination also remains one of the best ways to reduce the risk of seasonal flu.
Vaccination begins even before birth. Pregnant women are encouraged to receive recommended vaccines, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Tdap, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. These immunizations help provide newborns with temporary protection during the first months of life before they are old enough to receive certain vaccines themselves
At the Wright Center for Community Health, we provide recommended vaccinations through our regional community health centers and aboard our 34-foot mobile medical and dental unit, Driving Better Health. The mobile clinic regularly visits schools, neighborhoods and community organizations, helping expand access to preventive care and immunizations for individuals and families throughout Northeast Pennsylvania
Vaccinations are just one part of keeping children healthy. Regular well-child visits allow pediatricians and family medicine providers to monitor growth and development, perform hearing and vision screenings, provide sports and school physicals, address illnesses, manage chronic conditions such as asthma, screen for behavioral and mental health concerns, and offer guidance on nutrition, safety and healthy development
Immunizations remain equally important throughout adulthood. Depending on age, occupation, travel, medical conditions and other risk factors, adults may need vaccines that protect against influenza, pneumonia, shingles, RSV, hepatitis, tetanus and whooping cough. Your primary care provider can help determine which vaccines are appropriate for you
As we prepare for the upcoming respiratory virus season, now is also the time to plan ahead for annual influenza and updated COVID-19 vaccinations when they become available. Many primary care practices, pharmacies, employers and community organizations offer these vaccines, making them convenient and accessible for most people
Vaccines have saved millions of lives and continue to be among the safest and most effective tools available to prevent serious disease. Staying current on recommended immunizations is a simple step that protects not only your own health, but also the health of your family, neighbors and community
Stephen S. Long Jr., M.D., is a dually board-certified physician in internal medicine and pediatrics at the Wright Center for Community Health. He is accepting patients of all ages. The Wright Center for Community Health also accepts same-day and walk-in appointments. For more information, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019
