August is a time when most kids are starting back to school, or going for the first time ever. There are WAY too many topics to write about, so here is a link to the American Academy of Pediatrics to see what they recommend.  However, a very important (and controversial) topic is immunizations.  August is National Immunization Awareness Month, so I think pairing it with back to school month is relevant. Vaccine inoculations are not for everyone, so be sure to do your own research and make an educated decision for your child.  Part of any well-rounded safety program should include injury prevention as well as discussions about vaccines.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

Shots (or vaccines) help prevent dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases from spreading. Vaccines aren’t just for kids – adults need to get vaccinated to stay protected from serious illnesses like the flu, measles, and pneumonia. Most of our adult population received vaccinations as children to prevent the spread of childhood diseases that were at one time wiped out of the general population. Now there are outbreaks each year for measles, chicken pox, etc. that at one time in the past 50 years were rarely seen. These can be deadly, especially to infants.

How can National Immunization Awareness Month make a difference?

We can all use this month to raise awareness about vaccines and share strategies to increase immunization rates in our community.

Here are just a few ideas:

• Talk to friends and family members about how vaccines aren’t just for kids. Shots can protect people of all ages from serious diseases.
• Encourage people in your community to get the flu vaccine every year.
• Invite a doctor or nurse to speak to parents about why it’s important for all kids to get vaccinated.

Of course, on everyone’s minds these days is the Covid vaccine. It is a personal choice whether to get it or not. You may not feel that you need it to be safe, but there are those around you who do need you to get it. Make your own decision but make an educated one.

National Immunization Awareness Month is a great time to promote vaccines and remind family, friends, and coworkers to stay up to date on their shots.

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‘Safety Nick’, as he is affectionately known, is the owner and operator of Home Hazard Prevention, LLC (HHP). In 2012, HHP was launched.  With the support of his wonderful (and understanding!) wife and two beautiful children, Nick works tireless hours, not only to help save your family’s lives, as a firefighter and a community safety expert, but also to be able to spend quality time with his family.  Nick moved to Arizona over 20 years ago and enjoys exploring our great state with his family.

Be sure to contact Home Hazard Prevention for any of your family or business safety needs. From mobile CPR training to car seat education to infant safety (and much more!) HHP is here to help! There is no one more qualified than a group of professional firefighters to keep your family safe! (480) 448-0266 or [email protected]

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