August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), a time dedicated to highlighting the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. This annual observance is a crucial reminder of immunizations' role in preventing diseases and promoting public health. Whether you're a parent, a healthcare provider, or simply someone looking to stay healthy, understanding the significance of immunizations is vital.
Immunizations, commonly known as vaccinations, are medical interventions that help protect individuals from infectious diseases. They work by introducing a small, non-infectious part of a disease-causing organism, or a blueprint of it, into the body. This stimulates the immune system to recognize and combat the actual pathogen if encountered in the future.
The primary benefit of immunizations is disease prevention. Vaccines have eradicated smallpox and reduced the incidence of diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella; the World Health Organization estimates that over 154 million lives have been saved by vaccines over the past 50 years. By getting vaccinated, individuals contribute to a healthier society, reducing the burden of diseases on the healthcare system and preventing outbreaks.
There are different types of vaccines designed to target specific diseases. Some common types include:
Contain a weakened form of the live virus that can stimulate the immune system without causing illness.
Use a killed version of the virus or bacteria, still generating an immune response
Contain an inactive toxin produced by the bacteria, protecting against the harmful effects of the toxin
National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) was established to promote the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. Supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations, NIAM provides a platform to educate the public about the safety and efficacy of vaccines.
The objectives of NIAM include:
Increasing awareness about immunizations.
Encouraging people to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations.
Dispelling myths and misconceptions about vaccines.
By doing so, NIAM aims to improve public health and curb the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases.
The NIAM theme changes yearly, focusing on particular aspects of immunization. This helps raise awareness about specific populations or vaccine recommendations.
There are numerous reasons why immunizations are a cornerstone of public health:
Vaccines effectively prevent various illnesses, saving lives and reducing healthcare system burdens
By promoting herd immunity, vaccinations protect not only the vaccinated individuals but also those who cannot receive vaccines due to medical conditions or age, which is especially important for vulnerable populations like infants and immunocompromised individuals
Widespread vaccination programs have significantly reduced the incidence of several diseases globally, with some diseases even on the verge of eradication
The importance of vaccination extends throughout life. Here's a breakdown of critical vaccinations for different age groups:
Early childhood vaccines are crucial for protecting young children from potentially life-threatening diseases. Vaccinations against measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and whooping cough are typically administered in the first few years of life, setting the foundation for a healthy future.
As children become teenagers, additional vaccines are recommended to maintain immunity and protect against new threats. Essential adolescent vaccines include HPV, meningococcal disease, and the Tdap booster (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis).
Adults should ensure they are up-to-date with their vaccinations to protect themselves and those around them. Essential vaccines for adults include the annual flu shot, vaccines for hepatitis, pneumonia, COVID, HPV, and the Tdap booster. Other vaccines might also be recommended depending on health status and travel plans.
Vaccinations are vital for seniors, as the immune system weakens with age. Vaccines for pneumococcal disease, shingles, and an annual flu shot are particularly crucial for older adults to prevent severe illness and complications.
Family Care Centers Medical Group Inc. is proud to support National Immunization Awareness Month by emphasizing the importance of vaccinations for all ages. Our experienced healthcare team is committed to delivering comprehensive immunization services to protect you and your loved ones from preventable diseases.
Visit FCCMG's Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Fountain Valley locations to stay up-to-date with your vaccinations and contribute to a healthier community.
Content Source : WHO
Content Source : CDC
Dr. Bunten is originally from Huntington Beach, CA. He attended high school in Tokyo, Japan, went to college at UC San Diego and then to medical school in the Midwest. He returned home to California for residency training in Family Medicine at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. His immediate family all reside in Huntington Beach.
Dr Fishbein has been in the practice of family medicine for over 35 years in Irvine. He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University, medical degree from Chicago Medical School, and completed his family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital of Long Beach.
Dr. Kim is the Medical Director of Family Care Centers, Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at Hoag Hospital, and a recipient of the Physicians of Excellence award from the Orange County Medical Association. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine, and has been practicing in our community for over 20 years.
Dr. Memon is a board certified Family Medicine physician and recently completed her fellowship in Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. She attended Saint George’s University, School of Medicine and completed her residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Her interest in medicine started at an early age and has since evolved into a passionate career.
Dr. Gina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Irvine where she graduated Suma Cum Laude. She went to USC Keck School of Medicine, and returned to UC Irvine for a Family Medicine Residency. Since 2005, she worked at Kaiser Permanente, VNCOC, and Family Care Center Urgent Care.
Dr. Williams is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. He is a native to Orange County and returned home after completing his medical degree at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. After completing his residency in family practice he successfully completed a fellowship in sports medicine.
Dr. Hye Lee is a board-certified Family Practice Physician, affiliated with the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Practice.She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Riverside and earned her medical degree from Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center. Afterward, she did her internship at Downey Regional Medical Center in California and has been a primary care physician since 2005.
Dr. Coyne is a board certified family practice physician and a California native. He completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA before earning his medical degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Dr Coyne spent 6 years in the US Air Force at Andrews and Luke Air Force bases, eventually separating as a Major. He enjoys working with patients of all ages.”
Dr. Jay Friehling is a Family Practice physician who has worked in Orange County since 1981. Born in Florida, he received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and then earned a Medical Degree at the New York Medical College.” His healthcare interests include Diabetes, Geriatric Care, and Hospice Care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoquist is board certified in Family Medicine. Her special interest is woman’s health and her practice accepts patients from 6 years old to seniors. Dr. Shoquist received her M.D. degree at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in Houston, Texas, and did her residency with Memorial Family Practice at memorial Southwest Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Tom is a board certified family medicine physician and native Californian. He received his bachelors of science with great distinction in biochemistry and honors in chemistry. Dr. Tom was awarded a Regents Scholarship to attend medical school at UC Irvine.
Dr. Yan attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Family Practice residency at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California. She joined Family Care Center in 2001. She chose Family Practice because she enjoys working with a wide variety of people and because it provides a unique opportunity for continuing care.
