National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States. This year, NIIW is scheduled to be held April 27- May 4, 2019.

Vaccines are among the most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death. They not only help protect vaccinated individuals, but also help protect entire communities by preventing and reducing the spread of infectious diseases. Among children born during 1994-2016, vaccination will prevent an estimated 381 million illnesses, 24.5 million hospitalizations, and 855,000 deaths over the course of their lifetimes.

Immunization is a shared responsibility. Families, healthcare professionals, and public health officials must work together to help protect the entire community.

Healthcare professionals remain parents’ most trusted source of information about vaccines for their children. They play a critical role in supporting parents in understanding and choosing vaccinations.

Georgia Statistics

• Since January 1, 2019, there have been 6 reported measles cases in Georgia.
• In 2018, 144 pertussis (whooping cough) cases were reported in Georgia. Of these 36.8% were infants <12 months of age.
• In 2018†, 125 mumps cases were reported to the Georgia Department of Public Health – the highest number of cases reported in the state in the past 11 years
• In 2017, 235 varicella cases were reported to the Georgia Department of Public Health. Of these 14.5% were infants <12 months of age.

Click here to see if your child is up-to-date on their immunizations, or visit your local health department.