Atrium Health Navicent issued the following announcement on Aug. 27.
Join Atrium Health Navicent in observing National Immunization Awareness Month by helping spread the word about the importance of vaccination for people of all ages.
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and increasing local cases, Atrium Health Navicent physicians urge everyone aged 12 and older to be vaccinated against the deadly virus.
Only the Pfizer vaccine has been approved for children aged 12 to 17. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted the Pfizer vaccine full approval on Monday for use in individuals aged 16 and older. The vaccine also continues to be available under emergency use authorization for children aged 12 through 15 and for third dose administration in certain immunocompromised individuals.
The Johnson & Johnson and Moderna vaccines have been approved for emergency use in everyone aged 18 and older. Visit dph.georgia.gov/covid-vaccine to locate a vaccine provider.
With many well-child appointments delayed during the pandemic, it’s also important for parents and guardians to ensure that children are up to date on routine vaccinations. On-time vaccination throughout childhood is essential because it helps provide immunity before children are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. Vaccines are tested to ensure that they are safe and effective for children to receive at recommended ages.
In addition to the COVID vaccine, it’s recommended that adults receive the following vaccinations:
· A Tetanus and Diphtheria booster is recommended every 10 years.
· Healthy Adults aged 50 and older should receive the shingles vaccine
· Adults may need other vaccines based on health conditions, job, lifestyle or travel habits.
· The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone receive the flu vaccine yearly, and before the end of October if possible.
“Mother always said an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In our era when we have proven and effective vaccines, vaccines are a ton of cure,” said Dr. Jeffrey Stephens, an infectious disease specialist who serves as an expert for Atrium Health Navicent. “The benefits of vaccination are overwhelming if you look at the available data. There’s a reason why many diseases from history have all-but been eliminated. It’s because of strong vaccination efforts.”
Anyone with questions about vaccination should consult with their primary care physician. For help finding a doctor, visit navicenthealth.org and select “Find a Doctor.”
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up