Immunize on Time-Your Baby's Counting on You

By Iowa Department of Public Health

Many people believe that childhood diseases are a thing of the past; however, the measles outbreak which occurred in the U.S. in 1989-91 proved that life-threatening diseases still happen to children and adults if they are not protected. The threat of epidemics in Iowa will grow if our children are not immunized.

After a vaccine is administered, the body produces disease-fighting substances called antibodies, which resist specific organisms when they enter the body. Some immunizations require only one dose of vaccine; others require several doses for complete protection. Immunizations are an effective insurance program for your child’s health and safety.

All infants should complete their basic immunization series before the age of two. However, if your infant has received no immunizations or only part, it is not too late to start or finish for complete protection.

Public Health officials in Iowa can provide a recommended schedule of immunizations. Some physicians may vary this schedule to meet your infant’s needs. For certain vaccines, a booster series will follow the primary series as the child approaches school age. See your physician for more information.

Immunizations are available from your doctor, clinic, neighborhood health center, County Health Department, well-child clinic, or public health nursing service (such as the VNA). Need low cost or no cost insurance for your children? Call HAWK-I at 1-800-257-8563

Source: Immunize Iowa’s Children, May 2001, reprinted courtesy of the Iowa Department of Public Health.