DHSS Press Release |
Date: April 22, 2008 DHSS-31-2008 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
Contact: Reporters Phone: 302-744-4907 |
NATIONAL INFANT IMMUNIZATION WEEK - APRIL 19-26
Vaccination: An Act of Love
Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) encourages Delawareans especially parents, guardians and healthcare providers to join in commemorating April 19-26 as National Infant Immunization Week. Vaccine-preventable diseases are at an all time low in the United States. However, these diseases still exist and present a real threat. Continued vaccination is therefore necessary to protect everyone from potential outbreaks. In Delaware, more than 2,000 children who are two years old are missing recommended shots.
To recognize the week, DPH encourages parents and caregivers to learn about childhood immunizations to ensure that all children two years old and younger are appropriately immunized for their age. At the same time, DPH urges healthcare providers to talk to parents about the importance of immunizations during doctor visits.
Today, there are very few reminders of the suffering, disability and premature death caused by diseases that are now preventable with vaccines, making parents less concerned about the need for immunization. Consequently, more than 1 million of the nation's 2 year-olds are still missing one or more recommended immunizations.
During National Infant Immunization Week, DPH's immunization program will partner with state service centers, daycare centers, recreational and community centers, baby product stores and pediatricians' offices across the state to raise immunization awareness. The awareness campaign will include print ads, TV interviews, radio PSAs, presentations and the dissemination of informational materials to the public.
For more information about National Infant Immunization Week or to learn about infant immunizations contact DPH's Immunization Program at 800-282-8672 or visit at www.dhss.delaware.gov/dph
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
