SPOKANE, Wash. – April 23, 2011 – During the week of April 23-30, 2011, Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) will observe National Infant Immunization Week, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention initiative designed to raise awareness about the importance of childhood immunizations. 

Each year, thousands of children become ill from diseases that could have been prevented by receiving all of their childhood immunizations on time. Countless children miss time from childcare and school because they are under-immunized or inappropriately immunized. 

“Vaccines are among the most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death,” said Dr. Joel McCullough, SRHD health officer. “They not only help protect vaccinated individuals, but also help protect entire communities by preventing and reducing the spread of infectious diseases.” 

In 2010, there were whooping cough outbreaks in nearby Grant County and northern Idaho, as well as confirmed cases of measles in Clark County—both diseases are vaccine-preventable. Immunization is a shared responsibility. Families, health care professionals and public health officials must work together to help protect the entire community. SRHD encourages parents to talk to their child’s health care provider to ensure that their child is up-to-date on immunizations. 

SRHD offers childhood immunizations through its Public Health Clinic, appointments can be made by calling (509) 324-1600. Free, school-based immunization clinics—no appointments necessary—are also offered by SRHD during the school year. The remaining clinics will be held:  

• May 17, 2011 at Farwell Elementary, 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• May 19, 2011 at Shiloh Hills Elementary, 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

SRHD joins hundreds of communities across the United States and in more than 100 countries around the world to celebrate the critical role vaccination plays in safeguarding our children, communities and public health. Information can also be found at www.srhd.org. SRHD’s website offers comprehensive, updated information about Spokane Regional Health District and its triumphs in making Spokane a safer and healthier community.