By David Collins, PAC, SMSC Medical Provider
National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance held in August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. Immunizations are often overlooked as a critical component of public health, and NIAM aims to change that by educating the public about the necessity of getting routine immunizations.
Immunizations are a cornerstone of public health because they protect individuals and communities from preventable diseases. Vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight off specific pathogens. Routine vaccinations help maintain herd immunity, which protects those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. By reducing the incidence of diseases, vaccines contribute to healthier communities and lessen the burden on healthcare systems.
One pervasive misconception is that the flu shot can cause the flu. This belief has been thoroughly debunked by scientific research. The flu vaccine contains inactivated virus or a single protein from the flu virus, neither of which can cause illness. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever, which are signs that the body is building protection against the flu.
Vaccines recommended for children and adults cover a range of diseases. According to the CDC, children should receive vaccines for diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and pertussis. Adults are recommended to get vaccines like the annual flu shot, shingles vaccine, and Tdap booster, among others. Detailed schedules and recommendations are available on the CDC’s website, ensuring everyone is informed about which vaccines are needed at different stages of life.
Historically, vaccines have dramatically reduced the incidence of many preventable diseases. For instance, several countries experienced significant increases in pertussis cases when vaccination rates dropped. In the 1970s and 1980s, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Sweden saw substantial outbreaks of whooping cough when vaccination coverage declined. The United Kingdom faced over 100,000 cases and 36 deaths following a reduction in pertussis vaccination. Similarly, Japan witnessed a surge from 393 cases to 13,000 cases within a few years. These instances underscore the necessity of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent the resurgence of diseases.
Common side effects of vaccines are generally mild and manageable. These can include soreness at the injection site, temporary malaise, or fatigue. Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate these symptoms. Serious side effects are extremely rare and are closely monitored by healthcare professionals.
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced public perception of vaccines. While some individuals have become more skeptical due to political and media influences, the consensus remains that vaccines are crucial for preventing disease. The rapid development and deployment of COVID-19 vaccines have highlighted the importance of vaccination in controlling pandemics and protecting public health.
Vaccination rates in most communities remain adequate, but there is always room for improvement. Booster shots are essential for certain diseases, such as pertussis and tetanus, where immunity can wane over time. The CDC provides detailed schedules for boosters to ensure individuals maintain immunity throughout their lives.
Public education plays a crucial role in improving vaccination rates. Working with and following recommendations from public health groups, such as Tribal Public Health and the Minnesota Department of Health, helps keep communities informed and engaged in immunization efforts. By staying informed and supporting public health initiatives, individuals can contribute to the goals of National Immunization Awareness Month and help protect their communities from preventable diseases.
