Immunization is responsible for the control of many infectious diseases that were once common in this country. Immunization has reduced and, in some cases, eliminated many diseases that routinely killed or harmed tens of thousands of infants, children and adults. The viruses and bacteria that cause diseases, such as diphtheria, whooping cough, measles, chickenpox and influenza, still exist and can infect people who are not protected by vaccines. Vaccine-preventable diseases have a costly impact, resulting in doctor's visits, hospitalizations and premature deaths. Sick children can also cause parents to lose time from work.

This message is of particular note as the summer comes to a close. August has been designated as National Immunization Awareness Month because it is the time of year when parents are enrolling children in school and older students are entering college. With the start of school comes requirements that children and older adolescents are up-to-date on their immunizations.

Check with House Calls of Eagle River or your Health Care Provider to determine what immunizations are right for you. More information is available at National Partnership for Immunization, 121 N. Washington Street, Suite 300

Alexandria, VA 22314. TEL: (703) 836-6110. FAX: (703) 836-3470. E-mail: npi@hmhb.org. Web site: www.partnersforimmunization.org.

Fredrick G. May

Physician Assistant, Certified

Fred is a Physician Assistant with House Calls of Eagle River, 696-5246. Please see our ad on this page.