ALBANY, Ga. — Immunization is a shared responsibility, benefiting individuals, families and the community as a whole, says Rebecca Snow, Southwest Health District’s immunization coordinator.

“Vaccines are among the most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death,” she said. “Vaccines not only help protect our children, but can also help protect entire communities by preventing and reducing the spread of infectious diseases.”

National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is April 22-29, and the Southwest Health District urges residents of Southwest Georgia to speak with a health care provider or doctor to make sure their infants are up-to-date on vaccinations.

“One of the best ways to protect our children is to make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations,” said Snow. “An equally important way to protect our children is to ensure families and friends are current on their vaccinations to protect the little ones.”

According to the CDC, the United States currently has the safest, most effective vaccine supply in its history, she said.

“Scientists, doctors and health care professionals give vaccines to children only after long, thorough and careful review,” said Snow. “The disease-prevention benefits of getting vaccines are much greater than the possible side effects for most children. Vaccination is the best way to protect others you care about from vaccine-preventable diseases.”

NIIW is a call to action for parents, caregivers and health care providers to ensure that infants are fully vaccinated against 14 vaccine-preventable diseases. Immunization is a shared responsibility.

For more information about immunizations, contact your county health department or your healthcare provider.