National Immunization Awareness Month
NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (KNOP) – August marks National Immunization Awareness Month, a time dedicated to emphasizing the importance of vaccinations for individuals of all ages, as highlighted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Back to School Health Priorities
This observance aligns with the back-to-school season, prompting Dr. Timothy Tesmer, Nebraska’s Chief Medical Officer, to stress the necessity of scheduling routine vaccinations and wellness checks with primary care providers. He encourages Nebraskan families to prioritize these health measures.
Why are Routine Vaccinations Important?
Dr. Tesmer explains, “It sets the stage for routine immunization and routine vaccinations that parents should be aware of and at least discuss with their child’s healthcare provider on top of overall wellness checks.”
Health Risks in Schools
As the school year progresses, the need for vaccinations and wellness checks becomes even more critical. Dr. Tesmer notes, “Schools, especially for respiratory or even GI tract illnesses, tend to be breeding grounds because the students are in an enclosed environment and it’s much easier to pass those types of illnesses back and forth. Just basic hygiene is very important.”
Community Health Benefits
Dr. Tesmer emphasizes that wellness checks and vaccinations benefit not only the individual but also the community. “Immunizations are there not only for health and for safety not only of the individual but of those around the person, other classmates let’s say or other educational professionals that are around that child day in and day out,” he states.
Conclusion
As we approach the new school year, it’s essential to consider the health of our children and the community. Vaccinations and regular health checks play a vital role in ensuring safety and well-being.
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