Going to the doctor for immunization shots may often appear last on our to-do lists, but it is time
to make them a priority. Measles, mumps, and polio are diseases many of us consider to be
ancient history, so what is the need for a vaccine? Vaccines help keep these illnesses away from
our communities. By not getting immunized, these dangerous diseases can appear again quickly
and spread fast.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 200 cases of
whooping cough, a severe respiratory illness most dangerous to babies, have already been
reported this year in Michigan. 2013 has also seen the presence of measles in our state. These
diseases, and many others, can easily be prevented through immunizations.
Vaccines work. The CDC states that many diseases, like smallpox and polio, have seen a 100%
decrease in deaths they previously caused, while other diseases saw at least a 90% decrease.
However, the Michigan Department of Community Health reports that only about 60% of Detroit
infants and adolescents have all the recommended vaccines to keep them protected. Vaccines
can only work if children are immunized on time and keep up with their shots.
The Institute for Population Health (IPH) wants to increase the number of infants and
adolescents completing all recommended vaccines to make sure our kids and communities stay
safe. The IPH can help provide guidance and resources for easy access to immunizations.
What should parents do to make sure their child’s immunizations are up to date? Although it
seems like summer just started, the time is now to get all of the necessary vaccines for the
beginning of the school year. Doctors’ appointments can get booked up fast in the fall just prior
to school enrollment, and there may be a long waiting period for an appointment. Parents can
avoid the wait by making appointments during summer vacation. Immunizations are also
available at the Herman Kiefer Complex, 1st Floor. Call 313-324-9670 for information on days
and times.
On Sunday, August 25, 2013, the IPH will team up with Channel 7 for the 36th annual Healthy
Living for Kids Immunization Fair at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American
History to provide immunizations for children. At the fair, eligible children 3 months and older
will have access to free immunizations against polio, rubella, measles, mumps, tetanus, varicella
(chicken pox), diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), Hepatitis B and HIB (Haemophilus
influenza type B), MCV4 Meningitis, Hep A, PCV 13 (Pneumonia), and HPV (Gardasil). The
fair will not just include shots. Additional services will be provided, along with information
about community health programs and entertainment.
While vaccines are very important for back-to-school, they also keep many harmful illnesses and
diseases out of our communities. For more information about the immunization fair and other
immunization programs, contact the IPH immunization program at 313-324-9670. You can alsoaccess information on our website at www.ipophealth.org, or visit the IPH at 1151 Taylor Street,
Detroit, 48202.