Why Vaccines Matter: What to Know During National Immunization Month
National Immunization Month is August. This month, there is a focus on immunization awareness. You can learn about how vaccines benefit you and the people around you. When you get vaccinated, you gain protection against a communicable illness. Having this protection, you also help ensure you do not spread an illness to others. Vaccination protects you and the people around you from illnesses and their potential complications.
During National Immunization Month, you can figure out what vaccines you may need. Sharing vaccine-related resources on social media can also be a way to get involved. The Immunization Action Coalition (IAC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are resources to share. You can also share information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, you can use National Immunization Month to discuss immunization with people important to you.
About National Immunization Month
Uprise Health explains: “National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance held in August.” NIAM is a time when people can learn about the health benefits of vaccines. At any age, there are benefits that vaccines can have. National Immunization Month provides information about recommended vaccines for various ages. In addition, you can spend this month learning about illnesses that vaccines help prevent.
One way you can participate in this month is by reviewing your vaccination records. You can also check in with healthcare professionals for immunization guidance. You can also provide people in your life with helpful immunization information and encouragement. You can even take this a step further and share on social media.
Uprise Health advises sharing and reading “posts from credible sources.” The World Health Organization (WHO) is one source you can cite. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is another reputable source. A third source you can look to is the Immunization Action Coalition (IAC).
General Importance of Vaccines
Vaccines can benefit you. There are vaccine schedules to ensure that you receive helpful vaccines at vulnerable moments. They can help prevent diseases. They can also, according to Monadnock Community Hospital, “reduce the risk of disease-related complications.” Infertility and pneumonia are two possible complications. Vaccines can also lessen the chances of needing to be hospitalized due to illness.
Getting vaccinated also benefits the people around you. Monadnock Community Hospital states: “They don’t just protect individuals; they help safeguard entire communities.” There are people with vulnerable immune systems depending on the immunity within their community. There are some people who cannot get vaccines for health reasons. Therefore, these people rely on other people to be vaccinated. Monadnock Community Hospital explains: “Herd community protects those who cannot be vaccinated.”
Anxiety-Reduction Possibilities of Vaccines
According to Uprise Health, vaccines can “have a positive impact on your mental health.” One positive effect is a reduction in worry. You may feel less anxious if you are less concerned about becoming ill and/or spreading illness. Since you are vaccinated, you can visit with others. This can help nurture the connections in your life that maintain your equilibrium. Uprise Health states: “Social connection can boost your happiness, self-esteem, and sense of belonging.” Vaccination can help facilitate this important aspect of maintaining your mental health.
Vaccine Awareness Overview
National Immunization Month offers a chance to learn more about vaccines and their impact. The month gives you an opportunity to check in about what vaccines you may need. It can be a time to consult with healthcare providers. You can also help raise awareness among people that you know. You can post about immunization on social media. You can also discuss vaccination with the people you care about. Vaccination is essential to protect you and your community. August, National Immunization Month, is a time when you can learn about this important topic.
