August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and the San Diego Immunization Coalition  wants everyone to make sure they have the shots they need.

Recent news stories about outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases are important reminders of how immunizations help protect the health of people, families and communities. Immunizations help protect babies, children, adolescents, teens and adults against serious diseases like whooping cough and measles. All of these diseases can be prevented by keeping up to date on immunizations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that babies get shots at 2, 4, 6, and 12-18 months to protect against diseases like measles and whooping cough. Some shots are required before child care and school entry.

Shots aren’t just for kids. Adults need protection from diseases like whooping cough, meningococcal disease or pneumonia. And the CDC recommend that everyone age 6 months and older get a seasonal flu shot every year.

Immunizations help prevent disease and can save lives, which supports the Live Well San Diego initiative’s vision for healthy, safe and thriving communities.

Find out which shots you and your family need and when to get them by talking to your doctor. You can also visit the websites below for more information:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Vaccines and Immunizations Page
ShotByShot.org – Stories of Vaccine-Preventable diseases

Vaccinate Your Baby

California Department of Public Health Immunization Branch Main Page

California Department of Public Health Shots for School Page

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Vaccine Education Center

The San Diego Immunization Coalition (SDIC) has been active since 1992, making it one of the oldest continuously operating immunization coalitions in the nation. Visit the Coalition’s website  to learn more.