Free Vaccines Offered at Health Departments

JACKSON – In recognition of National Infant Immunization Week, the Mississippi

State Department of Health is offering free routine immunizations for infants and children through 18 years of age at all county health departments the week of April 22-26.

“Immunizations are essential to give infants and growing children a healthy start in life,” said MSDH State Epidemiologist Dr. Thomas Dobbs. “Statistics have show dramatic declines in vaccine-preventable illnesses and deaths in Mississippi, thanks to appropriate immunizations. Though diminished, these vaccine-preventable illnesses such as polio, pertussis and measles remain ever-present threats. Immunization is the best protection we can offer our children against these often deadly diseases.”

MSDH – along with the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians – recommends immunizations for infants and children from birth through 18 years of age for protection against children diseases.

Vaccinations in this promotion include protection for infants, children and adolescents against the following diseases: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Haemophilus Influenza type b (H1b), Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chicken Pox, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Pneumococcal, Meningococcal, HPV and Rotavirus.

Mississippians are strongly encouraged to call their local county health department to check availability before arriving at the clinic. For more information on recommended and required childhood vaccinations, visit the MSDH website at www.HealthyMS.com/immunizations or call 1-866-458-4948.

Categories: Local News

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