WCCHD CELEBRATES National Infant Immunization Week

Immunization saves millions of lives and is one of the greatest and most successful and cost-effective public health initiatives. Among children born during 1994–2013, vaccination will prevent an estimated 322 million illnesses, 21 million hospitalizations, and 732,000 deaths over the course of their lifetimes.
National Infant Immunization Week raises awareness about the important role vaccinations have in keeping our children, families, and communities protected from diseases. Vaccine preventable diseases such as whooping cough, chickenpox, and mumps still threaten the health of our children and our community.
This week, the Williamson County and Cities Health District (WCCHD), reminds parents and caregivers of young children of the importance of keeping children up to date with their vaccinations.
“Vaccinating your child according to the recommended immunization schedule gives them the best protection against 14 serious childhood illnesses before the age of two,” said Dr. Amanda Norwood, WCCHD Medical Director and Williamson County Health Authority. “Vaccinations are essential for infants, children and adolescents because they equip their immune systems to recognize and prevent disease so they can develop and live healthy lives into adulthood.”
WCCHD Clinical Services program serves as a vaccination safety net for those without insurance in Williamson County. WCCHD offers vaccinations for children with CHIP/Medicaid or who are uninsured, and uninsured adults. Visit www.wcchd.org/clinicalservices or call 512-943-3600 to make an appointment or to learn more.

###

The Williamson County and Cities Health District (WCCHD), nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Williamson County. WCCHD provides critical public health services including retail food inspections, clinical services like immunizations and well-woman exams, epidemiological and emergency responses to disease outbreaks, mosquito surveillance, WIC nutrition benefits and education, and administers the county indigent healthcare program. Learn more at www.wcchd.org