It’s Worth a Shot, for You and Your Family

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), a great time to review why it is so important for people of all ages to stay up to date on vaccinations.

Vaccines are safe, effective, and one of the best tools we have to prevent disease and severe illness. They are also much safer than trying to develop natural immunity because some diseases can have lasting, damaging and unpredictable effects on your body.

"Vaccines help us protect ourselves and our loved ones from extreme sickness or even death by helping our bodies develop immunity more quickly to stop the spread of preventable disease," said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, Deputy Public Health Officer. "There is also a cost-savings for our health care systems and patients by decreasing the need for hospitalization for diseases that are vaccine preventable."

Vaccination programs have saved 154 million lives over 50 years, significantly reducing infant mortality and improving survival rates across generations.

Vaccines are not just for infants and children. There are recommended vaccines through all stages of life. Talk to your health care provider to ensure you and your loved ones are protected against severe illness.

During Pregnancy

Give your baby a healthy start in life. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, protect yourself and your baby by getting vaccinated. Babies get disease protection, or immunity, from their mom during pregnancy until they can get their own vaccines.

It is important to ask your healthcare provider about vaccines that help build immunity and protect against Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Influenza (Flu). You can also ask about protection from Hepatitis B, Hepatitis A, Meningococcal or other travel-related vaccines.

Immunizations for a Healthy Pregnancy

For Infants and Children Aged 0-6

Even healthy babies can get sick. Vaccines can protect them from becoming severely ill. Infants need immunizations at birth, two, four, six, and 12-15 months of age. California law requires children get vaccinated before starting childcare/preschool, pre-K, or school. By vaccinating your child and following immunization guidelines, parents can protect their babies from 14 serious diseases before they turn 2. Young children will need additional vaccines up to age 6 to stay up to date.

Immunizations for infants and young children , vaccines by month and year.

Children and Teens Ages 7-18

Back to school means it's time to check on your child's immunizations to make sure they are all caught up for a healthier school year. Teens need booster shots and additional vaccines based on their age and new stages in life. It is important to talk to your health care provider about your child's vaccines to best protect them from preventable diseases, like Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), Meningitis and more.

Immunization Recommendations for Children and Teens

Adults aged 19-64 Immunizations are not just for kids. It is just as important for adults to stay up to date on immunizations and avoid getting sick from diseases that could be prevented. As an adult, you may need additional vaccines depending on your health, age, job, lifestyle, or travel plans. Health conditions like diabetes or heart disease can make a person more likely to become ill or have complications from these diseases.

In addition, immunity provided by some childhood vaccines may decrease over time, so booster shots may be needed to boost your immunity and keep you protected. Talk with your healthcare provider about catching up with Hepatitis B vaccine or Tetanus booster and any other vaccines they recommend for you.

Immunization Recommendations for Adults

Older adults ages 65 +

Vaccines are important throughout our lives, especially for older adults. As we age our immune system cannot fight off infections as well as when we were younger. Because of this, illnesses like the flu, pneumonia, and shingles can become dangerous in older adults and even life-threatening.

Vaccines can protect you and help you stay healthy as you age. Staying up to date on vaccinations as well as booster doses to increase immunity are key to staying healthy and feeling well. Talk with your healthcare provider about what vaccines they recommend for you.

Immunization for Older Adults

Vaccines help protect people of all ages from getting and spreading serious, preventable diseases that could result in poor health, missed work and costly medical bills. You can ask your doctor, pharmacist, or community health center about vaccinations. If you do not have a healthcare provider, contact 2-1-1.

More information on vaccines is available on the County's Immunization site .