Snow Hill, MD - Worcester County Health Department is observing National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW), during the week of April 24-30, 2023.

NIIW highlights the importance of protecting infants and young children from vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccines are the best way to protect your child from l4 serious childhood diseases, like whooping cough (pertussis) and measles. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), among children born during 1994-2018, vaccinations will prevent an estimated 4l 9 million illnesses, 26.8 million hospitalizations, and 936,000 deaths over their lifetimes.

COVID-19 has caused many disruptions in everyday life. In some cases, this means that children have missed or delayed their wellness checkups and vaccinations, which are a critical part of ensuring children stay healthy. This year, a primary focus of National Infant Immunization Week is to help families stay on track for their well-child visits and routine recommended vaccinations.

If you have questions or concerns about vaccines, speak with your child's doctor, or call the Worcester County Health Department Immunization Program at 410-632-1100 ext. 1105.