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In the most recent history of the pandemic scare with swine flu, the 1940s & 50s battle with polio, and as far back as the dark ages that were fraught with bubonic plague, civilization has battled disease. History has seen over and over the plight of mankind as they have succumbed to various diseases. Fortunately, with the advancements of modern science, many of these diseases have been controlled or eliminated with the development of vaccines.
Vaccinations began in the US as early as 1796 with smallpox vaccinations and adults in the age range of 50-60 can remember Jonas Salk and the discovery of the polio vaccine. The most recent vaccine in the news is the HPV vaccine that helps to fight the early development of HPV cells that have been linked to the development of cervical cancer in women.
Unfortunately, according to the Centers for Disease Control, immunization numbers are at an all time low. Elementary schools have mandated immunization for students entering the education system but once they are in, adolescent and adult immunizations fall off dramatically. Most parents track immunizations for their children but do they track their own? Studies prove that they do not. However, the work of a non profit group, The Immunization Action Coaliton, is working with healthcare professionals to change this pattern of behavior.
The Immunization Action Coalition is a non profit group that provides healthcare professionals with acurate, current information on vaccinations. By staying abreast of the changing face of vaccine information, their mission is to increase immunization rates and prevent disease. This could be through education materials for the public or by expanding communication with patients, parents, and healthcare professionals.
If you would like to know if you or your child is up to date on immunizations, please feel free to go to the following links for the appropriate forms or visit the website for more information:
http://www.vaccineinformation.org
http://www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4060.pdf Child or Teen
http://www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4065.pdf Adult
http://www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4010.pdf Immunizations for Babies – A Guide for Parents
http://www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4050.pdf When do Children and Teens need Vaccinations?
http://www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4030.pdf Vaccinations for Adults – You’re Never Too Old
http://www.immunize.org/printmaterials/topic.asp#quest All Printed Vaccine Information
