True or False? A developing baby acquires protection against infectious diseases from its mother during pregnancy. TRUE! The immunizations a mother-to-be receives before and during pregnancy can help protect her newborn baby from some infectious diseases during the first few months of life.
In the eighth installment of the Immunology 101 Series, Aimee will explain the science behind immunization and pregnancy.
[Read more…]
On Friday, April 29 the Colorado House of Representatives voted to pass, on concurrence, an amended version of House Bill 1288: Concerning Personal Belief Exemptions to Immunization Requirements for Children Prior to Attending School.
Many parents may be wondering what House Bill 1288, as currently written, means for their families and schools. As a parent of three school-age children who attend three different schools, the issue hits close to home—as it surely does for every parent who has made a vaccine decision on behalf of their children. [Read more…]
Many parents think about the shots their baby will get to protect them from diseases as starting at the 2 month checkup, but there is actually a very important vaccination that should be given shortly after a baby is born: the hepatitis B vaccine.
This month marked a major milestone in a massive international effort to eradicate polio from the world’s second-most populated nation, India. On Feb. 11, dignitaries convened in Delhi to recognize the country’s third year without any polio cases, and next month, an international commission will consider certifying India as polio-free.
But the race isn’t over just yet. [Read more…]
By Stephanie Wasserman, Executive Director of the Colorado Children’s Immunization Coalition
With the holiday season in full swing, I know that you may be considering charitable donations as a way to celebrate and spread the joy of giving. Today marks the annual Colorado Gives Day (#COGivesDay), an initiative to increase philanthropy in Colorado through online giving. When supporting the charities that inspire you this Colorado Gives Day, I encourage you to remember the invaluable role the Colorado Children’s Immunization Coalition (CCIC) plays in keeping Colorado kids healthy. [Read more…]
Flu season is upon us, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend everyone 6 months and older get an annual influenza (flu) vaccine. Whether you’re a loyal taker or just considering getting a flu vaccine for the first time, here are some helpful reminders of why that little shot (or spray) is a good idea. [Read more…]
Better Communication About Vaccines Can Increase Vaccination Rates and Improve Health Literacy
By Jeanine Limone Draut, Principal, InPraxis Communications
Flu season crept up on me this year, and it dawned on me last week that it was time for my family to get our annual flu shots.
I went to the pediatrician’s website to find out when the flu shot clinic would take place. Buried under the “News” section of the site was “Influenza Vaccine Information.” I clicked on the link, and this is what I found: [Read more…]
By Diana Herrero, Interim Immunization Section Director, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
What’s the best way to stay healthy this flu season? With a flu shot, of course! The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is always searching for new and creative ways to spread the word about the importance of the flu vaccination. And what better way to make a message go viral than with social media? [Read more…]
Fall has officially arrived and flu vaccine is rolling in to healthcare providers’ offices, clinics and pharmacies across the U.S. That means it’s time to prepare for colder temps and sniffles season with an annual flu vaccine. [Read more…]
By Diana Herrero, Interim Immunization Section Director, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Everyone knows how important vaccines are for babies and toddlers, but what about adolescents and teens? As kids reach their teenage years, protection from some childhood vaccines begins to wear off. Plus, older kids are at risk for other diseases. A report published August 30 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that while more teens are getting vaccinated, coverage rates still fall below national goals for some teen vaccines. [Read more…]