Mineola, NY- In recognition of National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW)—April 16-23, 2016—Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Health Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein are reminding parents, caregivers and healthcare providers of the critical role that vaccinations provide in safeguarding our children. NIIW is an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States.
“Each year in Nassau County we welcome over 14,000 babies who will need to be vaccinated,” said County Executive Mangano. “National Infant Immunization Week is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of ensuring all children are fully protected from vaccine-preventable diseases through immunization. Vaccinations are critical in protecting the health of our children, families and communities.”
“Vaccines are among the most successful public health tools available for preventing disease and death,” said County Health Commissioner Lawrence Eisenstein, M.D. “Vaccinating children with the recommended immunizations by age two is the best way to protect them from serious childhood diseases, like pertussis and measles.”
Vaccines have significantly reduced vaccine-preventable diseases in the United States. However, many of these diseases still circulate in the Unites States and around the world, so continued vaccination is essential to protect everyone from potential outbreaks. Families are encouraged to check with their healthcare providers to ensure their children’s immunizations are up-to-date, especially if plans include international travel.
Additional information and vaccination schedules may be obtained by visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s web site at www.cdc.gov/vaccines. Nassau County residents may also call the Nassau County Department of Health Immunization Hotline at (516) 227-9416.