National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) has been celebrated for 21 years during the last week of April. It serves as the U.S. initiative of the World Health Organization’s World Immunization Week.
With the recent measles outbreaks throughout the country, children are vulnerable from diseases that are preventable with vaccines. As seen in a Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, in 2014 there were 668 cases of measles in 27 states.
The purpose of NIIW is to raise awareness and protect infants and toddlers from 14 vaccine-preventable diseases, including influenza. The goal is to vaccinate children in America from these diseases by the age of two. By doing so, the CDC also hopes to promote overall healthier communities.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), vaccines are the most successful and economic way to prevent diseases and deaths. Immunizations not only protect the vaccinated person, but also his/her entire community.
The AAP recognizes immunization is a shared responsibility between parents, caregivers and government agencies and the CDC uses NIIW to educate both. The goal is to encourage parties to have better communication about vaccines.
For children who are underinsured and parents and guardians who can not afford immunizations, the federally funded Vaccines For Children Program (VCF) provides vaccines at no cost. The CDC buys vaccines at a low price which are then distributed to physicians registered as VCF providers.
The CDC will also award 50 people the CDC Child Immunization Champion, one from each state. The award is given to acknowledge the work of those making a significant contribution towards child immunization. Winners will receive a certificate, be featured on the CDC website and may be recognized during NIIW.
For resources regarding vaccines and NIIW, visit the following CDC and AAP resources:
Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule
Talking to Parents About Vaccines and Infants
