•August 3, 2016•

Many parents are preparing their children to head back to school, which includes making sure they have all their needed immunizations. And while immunization is one of the most important things parents can do to protect their children from serious diseases, during National Immunization Awareness Month this August, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) would also like to remind those parents and others that immunizations are important for people of all ages.

“The need for vaccines does not end in childhood. Immunizations are recommended throughout our lives based on age, lifestyle, occupation, travel destinations, medical conditions, and vaccines received in the past,” said IDPH Director Nirav D. Shah, M.D., J.D. “Immunization not only protects the person receiving the vaccine, but also helps prevent the spread of disease, especially to those who are most vulnerable, such as infants, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions and weakened immune systems. I encourage all adults to check their immunization status during National Immunization Awareness Month and talk with their health care provider.”     Login or Subscribe to read the rest of this story.