Health Topics

August is Immunization Awareness Month!

• August is Immunization Awareness Month. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), "Vaccine-preventable disease levels are at or near record lows. However, we cannot take high immunization coverage levels for granted."  Keeping vaccines current is very important in maintaining your health.
• Though you may have received many vaccines as a child it is important to be informed of new vaccines that are coming out on the market.
• For example, the CDC recommends that women 26 and under be against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the virus linked to both cervical cancer and genital warts. For more information make an appointment with a Women's Health provider or go to http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpdvac/hpv/default.htm
• The Hepatitis Vaccinations (for Hepatitis A and B) are given in a series on shots. According to the CDC, "Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all children starting at age 1 year, travelers to certain countries, and others at risk. The Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all infants, older children and adolescents who were not vaccinated previously, as well as adults at risk for HBV infection." 
• Look for news from Student Health Services on getting your flu vaccines.

 For more information about the newest flu vaccine go to http://www.cdc.gov/flu/

 Finally, As we wave good-bye to summer and say hello to flu season remember that staying up to date on all your vaccines can help prevent many serious and life threatening illnesses.

 For a list of Vaccines suggested for Adults look at: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/adult-vpd.htm