This August, we recognize National Immunization Month. It is a friendly reminder that not only children need to be up to date on vaccinations, but also adolescents, adults, and expectant mothers. Nationally recommended vaccines can offer continuous immune support against common illnesses and diseases.

We encourage you to educate patients on the importance of disease prevention through routine immunization.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

Adolescents can begin the HPV vaccine series at age 9. The HPV vaccine may protect children from certain HPV related cancers. Speak with your patient and their guardian about the HPV vaccine and when they should begin the HPV vaccination series.

You can get more information about the HPV vaccine and HPV related cancers by visiting www.cdc.gov/hpv/hcp/2-dose/parents-should-know.html

Adult Immunizations

Childhood diseases are highly contagious and can spread to adults. Adults may need boosters to offer continuous immune support against common childhood diseases as well as other illnesses. The CDC recommends appropriate adult vaccinations based on age, health conditions and pregnancy status. Talk with your patients about which vaccines may be appropriate for them.

Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool: www2.cdc.gov/nip/adultimmsched/

Immunization Schedule by age: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/adult.html

Vaccines and Pregnancy

For patients who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to them about staying up to date on vaccinations before, during and after giving birth. Staying up to date on nationally recommended vaccinations may provide protection for both the patient and unborn child.

You can get more information on how to protect unborn children with vaccines by visiting www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pregnancy/index.html