National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance held in August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. This year, NIAM serves as an important reminder to catch up on routine visits and vaccinations that may have been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Children, teens and young adults are typically required to receive immunizations before entering daycare, elementary, middle or high school and college.
Says Suzie Ouradnik, Fargo Cass Public Health Immunization Coordinator, “On-time immunizations are essential in protecting your child and family members from a number of serious diseases including measles, meningitis, and whooping cough.” According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the national vaccination coverage among kindergarten children during the 2020-2021 school year dropped by about 1% from the previous year.
To assist parents in ensuring both child and teen immunizations are up-to-date, FCPH will hold two Back-to-School immunization clinics in August; details are below. Kids and teens can also receive immunizations during regular hours by appointment in the FCPH clinic, which can be reached by calling 701.241.1383.
Says Ouradnik, “We don’t want cost to be a barrier in making sure kids and teens are up-to-date with immunizations. Before attending a clinic, we suggest parents check with their insurance company to verify coverage for immunizations provided by FCPH.” The Vaccine for Children program is also available for children 18 and under who meet qualifying criteria.
FCPH Back-to-School Immunization Clinics details:
• August 17 & 18, 8 am – 4 pm
• Main FCPH building, 1240 25th St S
• Pre-registration is available, but appointments are not necessary.
• All recommended child and teen immunizations will be available.
• Prior to attending an immunization clinic, parents are encouraged to contact their insurance company to verify coverage for immunizations provided by FCPH.
• Additional information and links to pre-register are available at www.ForAllofUs.com