Department of Health launches “Immunizations across the Lifespan” campaign

Secretary of Health Everette James today urged all Pennsylvanians to ensure they are fully immunized against vaccine-preventable diseases, noting that August is National Immunization Awareness Month.

"While routine use of vaccines over the years has resulted in a dramatic reduction in vaccine-preventable disease in the U.S., we are still experiencing far too many outbreaks," said James. "The current whooping cough epidemic in California is a perfect example of the dangers of vaccine-preventable diseases and illnesses, and how quickly they spread among individuals who are not immunized."

While overall immunization levels in the U.S. are up, levels in many parts of the nation remain dangerously low. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 2008 National Immunization Survey, 76 percent of American children were fully immunized by 35 months of age, with some areas of the country showing levels as low as 59 percent. In Pennsylvania, the level was 78 percent.

Immunizations are among the most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death. As parents are enrolling their children in school, students are entering college, and healthcare workers are preparing for the upcoming flu season, August is an ideal time to catch up on immunizations.

Vaccines not only prevent disease in people who receive them but also protect those who come in contact with unvaccinated individuals, including those who are too young to be vaccinated or individuals who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.

"Ensuring you and your family are up-to-date on immunizations is critical to protecting yourselves, your loved ones and your communities from disease," James added.

To better educate adults, the Department of Health recently launched the "Immunizations across the Lifespan" campaign, which included billboards, radio spots, posters and educational outreach activities.  

National Immunization Awareness Month is an annual observance to increase awareness about immunizations and encourage all age groups to learn more about recommended vaccines. To boost awareness in Pennsylvania, regional immunization coalitions will join to host a number of events at minor and major league baseball games throughout August and early September.