August is Immunization Awareness Month

Supplies for a shot rest on a tray in the Laughlin Medical Clinic at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, Aug. 14, 2014. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the clinic prior to the school year to ensure their children receive up to date vaccinations to prevent outbreaks like chickenpox. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jimmie D. Pike)

August is Immunization Awareness Month

Published Aug. 18, 2014
By Airman 1st Class Jimmie D. Pike
47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --

School starts the fourth Monday in August, which makes August the ideal time for Immunization Awareness Month.

As part of Immunization Awareness Month, the 47th Medical Group Immunizations office has some information to shed light on the importance of getting immunized.

"Immunizations are important as a preventative medicine to help support immune systems and prevent epidemics, especially for kids going to school," said Staff Sgt. Daniel Lee, 47th MDG NCO in charge of immunizations.

August also marks the beginning of one of the busiest times for immunization clinics

"Before school starts and Flu season are the two busiest times of the year for immunizations," said Lee. "These are crucial times to get vaccines up to date to prevent outbreaks such as measles, whooping cough, or chicken pox."

Parents should keep updated shot records for their children to help ensure their safety and well-being.

"Shot records are important because they show what vaccines you have already received, as well as the ones you need," said Lee. "Vaccines are the first line of defense for dangerous and deadly diseases." For more information, please contact the Laughlin Immunizations Office at 298-6469, or visit http://www.vaccines.mil/VIS.