The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) asks counties to recognize National Infant Immunization Week.
The event, according to MDH, ‘highlights the importance of protecting infants from serious diseases by keeping them up to date with their well-child visits and recommended immunizations.
Vaccines help reduce the spread of infectious diseases.
Without that protection, children are more likely to get measles, RSV, whooping cough and other diseases prevented by vaccines.
“As adults who care deeply for our children, we understand that we want to set our children up for success in all aspects of life – including their health,” said Dr. Andrea Singh, chair of pediatrics at Park Nicollet and co-lead of Children’s Health Initiative.
“Vaccines help our children’s immune systems recognize and fight infectious diseases that have the potential to cause serious bodily harm and even death. We all want to do right by our children and when it comes to their health, getting them fully vaccinated is a key piece of that puzzle for parents.”
Otter Tail County Public Health (OTCPH) Assistant Director Kristi Goos encourages parents to take these action steps during National Infant Immunization Week:
• Check your child’s immunization record to see what vaccines your child has received and what vaccines they may need.
• Contact your child’s healthcare provider to schedule a well-child visit and immunization.
• Learn more about the importance of childhood immunizations and find additional resources online, such as using the “Docket” app to access immunization records, search Otter Tail County Public Health Immunization Support Center.
Otter Tail County Public Health Assistant Director Kristi Goos adds that if families are looking for resources or support to cover the cost of updating their children’s vaccine schedule, they should reach out to Otter Tail County Public Health (OTCPH) at 218-998-8320.
Public Health can either provide the vaccine at no or low cost or help families find an available provider in their community.