Health Department celebrates National Infant Immunization Week

MASON CITY – The Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health is celebrating National Infant Immunization Week, April 18-25, 2015.

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), we are able to protect our children from 14 vaccine-preventable diseases before the age of two. “The recommended immunization schedule is designed to offer protection early in life,” states Bethany Bjorklund, Immunization Nurse. Children receive vaccines at an early age due to their increased vulnerability to certain diseases.  Without these necessary vaccinations, a young child’s body may not be strong enough to fight these diseases after exposure.  Bjorklund also noted, “By getting your child vaccinated, you are protecting not only your own child, but also protecting other children in the community who are unable to receive vaccines due to various medical conditions.”

The CDC states that currently the United States has the safest, most effective vaccine supply in its history. Their long-standing vaccine safety system ensures that vaccines are as safe as possible.

Please take the time to review your child’s immunization records to ensure their immunizations are current. This includes boosters. Our immunization clinic is open Monday – Friday from 10:00 AM – noon and 12:30 – 4:00 PM. Walk-ins are welcome.

Vaccines are available through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program for children through the age of 18 that meet any of the following criteria:

• Child has no health insurance coverage.
• Child is American Indian or Alaskan Native.
• Child is enrolled in Medicaid.
• Child is under-insured. This means the child’s health insurance does not cover the cost of immunizations.

We also accept most major insurance companies or private payment. An administration fee donation of $3.00 per immunization is requested unless covered under Medicaid.

Below is a chart showing the proper age they should receive each of the recommended vaccines.