DCH Corner – National Immunization Awareness Month

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and we’re showing our support by providing information on vaccines for children, teens, preteens and adults. Getting vaccinated according to the recommended immunization schedule is one of the most important things a parent can do to protect their child’s health. Diseases can quickly spread among groups of children who aren’t vaccinated. Whether it’s a baby starting at a new child care facility, a toddler heading to preschool, a student going back to elementary, middle or high school – or even a college freshman – parents should check their child’s vaccination records.

Child care facilities, preschool programs, schools and colleges are prone to outbreaks of infectious diseases. Children in these settings can easily spread illnesses to one another due to poor hand washing, not covering their coughs, and other factors such as interacting in crowded environments.

When children are not vaccinated, they are at increased risk for disease and can spread disease to others in their play groups, child care centers, classrooms and communities – including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated and people with weakened immune systems due to cancer and other health conditions.

Additionally, states may require children who are entering child care or school to be vaccinated against certain diseases. Colleges and universities may have their own requirements, especially for students living in residence halls. Parents should check with their child’s doctor, school or the local health department to learn about the requirements in their state or county.

One of the most important steps in getting vaccinated is keeping track of what vaccines have been received. Decatur County Hospital has partnered with Community Health Centers of Southern Iowa, Decatur County Public Health, and South Central Home Health Care to provide free medical record cards. You can use these cards to record your vaccinations, and also keep a list of your current medications. You should keep this card with you at all times in case you have an emergency and healthcare staff need to know your information.

To get one of these free cards, visit Decatur County Hospital, Community Health Centers of Southern Iowa in Leon or Lamoni, or Decatur County Public Health. To learn more about Decatur County Hospital and our available services, please visit www.www.decaturcountyhospital.org, or follow us on Facebook @DecaturCountyHospitalIowa. And don’t forget that we want to hear from you! Email us at serb@d-c-h.org if you have a topic or question you would like us to cover in one of our DCH Corner articles.