National Infant Immunization Week is an annual observance recognized this year from April 21-28th.
The week highlights the importance of protecting children 2 years old and younger from vaccine-preventable diseases. A news release says global immunization efforts during the last 50 years have saved an estimated 154 million lives, including 101 million infants. With ongoing measles outbreaks nationwide and cases rising in Michigan, it is crucial now more than ever to ensure Michigan residents – particularly children – are up to date on all recommended immunizations.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive says, “Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to keep children healthy and communities safe,” said “With diseases like measles on the rise across the country, staying on schedule with childhood immunizations is more important than ever.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics is urging parents to keep their children on schedule with well-child visits and routine vaccinations adding timely vaccination is essential for protecting against potentially life-threatening diseases.
For more information on vaccines, parents can visit Michigan.gov/immunize or iVaccinate.org.
