Calendars and Events:
NIIW-VWA Activities Across U.S. and Mexico
April 19-26, 2008 - National Infant Immunization Week
2008 National Infant Immunization Week Topics:
2008 NIIW Activities:
If you are planning an NIIW 2008 activity, large or small, we would like to hear from you! Please complete this form.
Alabama
Jacksonville, Alabama
Activity: Community Awareness Day
Date: April 19; 9am-2pm
The Calhoun County Citizen Corps [http://calhouncountycert.wetpaint.com/] are partnering with volunteers from across the community to increase awareness of disaster preparedness techniques. There will be exhibits, demonstrations, refreshments, and entertainment for community residences. The following organizations will be participating: Alabama Youth Challenge; city of Oxford, Oxford Parks and Recreation, Alabama National Guard Youth Challenge; Alabama State Defense Force; American Red Cross; Anniston Fire; Big Brothers—Big Sisters of Alabama; Callhoun County 911, civil defense, EMA, Hazmat; Metro Services; Piedmont civil defense and cert; Races; Rockin Rescue; and Salvation Army.
Contact: Debbie Blevins at (256) 435-0540 or dblevins@calhounema.org
Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska
Activity: Governor's Proclamation release at Immunization clinic
Date: April 19; 11am ADT
The Alaska Immunization Program [www.epi.alaska.gov/immunize] will work with Alaska Regional Hospital to kick-off NIIW. Alaska's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jay Butler, will deliver Governor Sarah Palin's Proclamation deginating April 19 - 26, 2008, as Infant Immunization Week in Alaska. This date coincides with a free immunization clinic offered monthly at one of the 3 large hospitals in Anchorage. Media is invited.
Contact: Doreen Stangel at 907-269-8013 or doreen.stangel@alaska.gov
Arkansas
Little Rock, Arkansas
Activity: Immunizations: Getting to the Point: A Self Guided Educational Tour
Date: April 23; 10am-4pm
The Arkansas Children's Hospital [www.archildrens.org], General Pediatric Clinic nurses, will be hosting this immunization education fair for hospital staff. Professional training topics include: the Recommended Immunization Schedule, keeping accurate immunization records, administering vaccines safely and effectively, vaccine-preventable diseases, reliable information for parents, myths and common questions, vaccines for travel, flu vaccine and missed opportunities. Our employee health department will be offering the Tdap vaccine to employees that attend. Other participating organizations include the Little Rock School District and the Arkansas Department of Health.
Contact: Karalyn Kerby at 501 364-1841 or kerbykc@archildrens.org
California
San Diego, California
Activity: Special Kid's Event at Balboa Park Model Railroad Museum
Date: April 22; 11am-2pm
Staff from the San Diego Immunization Branch [www.sdiz.org] will partner with the Model RR Museum to review children's immunization records, enter their information into the San Diego Immunization Registry, distribute goody bags filled with various health materials and take pictures of children posing as a train engineer with our mock train display. Participating organizations include: San Diego Maternal, Child and Family Health Services, Perinatal Care Network, San Diego Kids Health Assurance Network, Child Health and Disability Prevention Program/Share the Care Dental Health Initiative, and SAY San Diego Start Smart Program. Immunization staff plan to debrief following the event.
Contact: Mildred Flores at 619-692-5556 or mildred.flores@sdcounty.ca.gov
Colorado
Denver, Colorado
Activity: SOUP! (Shots Offer Unrivaled Protection) Fundraiser
Date: April 17; 6 pm
The Colorado Children's Immunization Coalition [www.childrensimmunization.org] has spent the last decade focused on increasing the childhood immunization rate through coalition building, education and outreach, and public policy, and it's time we celebrate! As a way to thank our partners and supporters in a fun and creative way, we are announcing the inaugural SOUP! (Shots Offer Unrivaled Protection) event, to be held on Thursday, April 17 from 6 to 9 pm at the Colorado History Museum (1300 Broadway).
Soup tasting will run from 6:00 - 8:10pm, and a brief award presentation will take place at 7:30pm. The event is designed to allow you to taste various soups from around Denver and will culminate with a vote tally and award ceremony for the Best Soup and Most Creative Soup categories. In addition to soup, you will enjoy wine, bread, coffee and dessert. Three Tomatoes Catering will be the official service provider for the event.
Contact: Heather Shull at (720) 777-5340 or ccicoffice@tchden.org
Connecticut
Bridgeport, Connecticut
Activity: Mothers Day Social for HeadStart parents
Date: April 22; 10:30am-12:00pm
The Southwestern Area Health Education Center/ Bridgeport Immunization Action Plan (www.swctahec.org) will have their IAP Coordinator and Senior Community Outreach Worker to give an overview of the importance of immunizations and the Connecticut registry to parents and caregivers. Daycare parents will play a BINGO game designed around the immunization program and will receive health promotion information and small personal items. The Action for Bridgeport Community Development (ABCD) will also participate. Evaluation will consist of periodic programs for parents.
Contact: Joan Lane at 203-372-5503 or jlane@swctahec.org
Activity: Immunization Registry Tracking System presentation and CIRTS BINGO
Date: April 26; 11am-12pm
The Southwestern Area Health Education Center/ Bridgeport Immunization Action Plan Program [http://www.swctahec.org] will provide education for parents and caregivers at Babies R Us, Boston Post Road, Milford location. Presenters will give an overview on the importance of early childhood immunizations and enrollment in the state immunization registry (CIRTS), as well as playing a BINGO game created for the local immunization program. Parents/caregivers will also be provided information on the importance of early childhood oral health care (another program of our agency). Written evaluation will be done at the end of the event.
Contact: Joan Lane at 203-372-5503 or jlane@swctahec.org
Activity: Mothers Day Social for WIC parents
Date: May 1; 10:30am-12pm (English), 1:30pm-3pm (Spanish)
The Southwestern Area Health Education Center/ Bridgeport Immunization Action Plan Program [http://www.swctahec.org] are sponsoring a health education program for WIC parents and caregivers, which will be co-hosted by the WIC Program and Healthy Start Program staff. The Bridgeport Immunization Action Program Coordinator and Senior Community Outreach Worker will provide an overview of the importance of immunizations and the CT registry to parents and caregivers, who will also play a BINGO game designed around the immunization program. Attendees will receive health promotion information and small personal items. WIC and Healthy Start co-hosts will also provide program information. Sessions will be offered at different times in both English and in Spanish. Written evaluation will be obtained from all attendees.
Contact: Joan Lane at 203-372-5503 or jlane@swctahec.org
Danbury, Connecticut
Activity: NIIW Celebration
Date: April 22 and 24
Bags filled with immunization information and gifts promoting childhood immunization will be distributed to patients, and refreshments will be provided. This event will be held at the Pediatric Health Center waiting room, Danbury Hospital, 70 Main Street, Danbury CT.
Contact: Irene Litwak at (203) 792-4120
East Hartford, Connecticut
Activity: Story Hour and Review of Children’s Immunization Records
Date: April 21; 10am and April 22; 2pm
Enrollment will be offered to any child not already in CIRTS. WIC clients and new enrollees are also encouraged to participate. This event will be held at the East Hartford WIC.
Contact: Marie Rorrio at 860-291-7322
Hartford, Connecticut
Activity: Walk for Shots
Date: April 23; 1pm
Shots provide an umbrella of protection to our most vulnerable population. Department Heads from the City of Hartford and other child health organizations will walk from City Hall to Bushnell Park promoting childhood immunization. This event will be held at Hartford City Hall, Main St. Hartford. If interested in participating, call Leticia Marulanda, Hartford IAP at 860-547-1426 X7033.
Meriden, Connecticut
Activity: WIC & Immunization Partnership
Date: April 21-25
During the week of NIIW, all Meriden WIC clients will receive a gift package including stuffed animals, CIRTS info and a book for early readers about germs and how the body reacts to them. This event will be held at the Meriden WIC, Meriden Health Dept.
Contact: Valerie Bryden at 203-630-4251
Naugatuck Valley, Connecticut
Activity: Immunization Playgroup and story hours
Date: April 21 at 10am; April 22 at 10am; April 24 at 10am
All families will receive up-to-date information on immunization for their child and valuable resources to take home. Locations are as follows for each date: Derby Public Library, 313 Elizabeth St, Derby- April 21, 10am; Ansonia Public Library, 53 South Cliff St, Ansonia- April 22, 10am; Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave, Derby-April 24,10am.
Contact: Elizabeth Green at 203-881-3255
New Britain, Connecticut
Activity: Access to Care for Children’s Health (Health Fair)
Date: April 21; 9am-3pm
The New Britain Immunization Program, CHC Dental Health Services, and Access to Care Programs will greet visitors from local community residences and assess children’s health needs, continuing with education and referrals. Children and their families will be provided with gift bags that include educational materials. All referrals received that day will be followed up with primary care providers and other services as necessary. The event will be held in the entryway/waiting room of the Community Health Center of New Britain, Inc at 1 Washington Square; New Britain, CT 06051. Visit http://www.chc1.com/locations/newbritain/loc_newbritain.htm for additional information.
Contact: Ramona Anderson at (860) 612-2777 or randerson@ch.ci.new-britain.ct.us
Activity: Immunization Records Night at the Stadium
Date: April 22; Gates open at 5:35 pm
The New Britain Immunization Program and the New Britain Rock Cats Minor League Baseball Team [http://www.rockcats.com] have partnered to promote well child health. Visitors to the New Britain Stadium (230 John Karbonic Way, New Britain, CT 06051) can have their children’s immunization records reviewed in order to receive a free ticket to the game. All kids 12 & under eat free at the game. A local pediatrician will throw the first pitch in honor of the event. An immunization information table will be set up with educational materials for parents and caregivers, and public service announcements will be made throughout the evening. Referrals will be made for children who are behind on their immunization records.
Contact: Ramona Anderson at (860) 612-2777 or randerson@ch.ci.new-britain.ct.us
New Haven, Connecticut
Activity: Pediatric Immunization Workshop
Date: April 25; 10am-12:30pm
Dr. Steve Updegrove from Hill Health Center will speak to young moms on the importance of immunizing their child. This event will be held at the Polly McCabe School, 390 Columbus Ave., New Haven. This event is open to students of the school only.
Contact: Jennifer Hall at 203-946-7097
New London/Groton, Connecticut
Activity: Community Baby Shower
Date: April 15; 1-6pm
This free event is open to all expectant parents. Information on infant health and parenting from various local resources such as social service agencies, local health departments, Backus Hospital, and the Naval Sub Base will be plentiful. Door prizes will be raffled off throughout the day and food and refreshments will be available. Where: William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich
Contact: Ginny Haas at 860-448-4882, extention 352
Norwalk, Connecticut
Activity: “The Power of the Shot” Breakfast Celebration
Date: April 10; 9:30-11:30am
The Norwalk Health Department will work with the Family and Children's Agency and the Nurturing Families Network to educate parents and caregivers over breakfast. Parents enrolled in a local agency's family support network will be educated about the importance of immunization and the diseases prevented, how to keep children up-to-date with vaccines, and the benefits of the CT Immunization Registry and Tracking System. Parents are asked to bring their child's immunization record which will be checked by the immunization staff. As a part of evaluation efforts, family support workers will provide assistance, as needed, to children who are not up-to-date on immunizations.
Contact: Pam Bates at 203-854-7728 or ptb50@aol.com
Activity: YMCA’s Kids Day
Date: April 12; 11am-2pm
Information regarding CIRTS, immunizations and diseases prevented will be on display during the event. Immunization brochures and promotional materials, which include the Norwalk Health Department phone number, for FREE shots will be provided to all who visit the immunization table. This event will be held at the Norwalk YMCA, 370 West Avenue, Norwalk.
For more information regarding these events, please call the Norwalk Immunization Action Plan at 203-854-7728.
Seymour, Connecticut
Activity: Children's Playgroup/Story Hour
Date: April 21, 22, 24
The Naugatuck Valley Health District [www.nvhd.org] will provide immunization resources and information to parents and caregivers while also reviewing children’s immunization records. This event will occur as scheduled: April 21, 10am; April 22, 10am, at Ansonia Public Library; and April 24, following 10am and 11am playgroup sessions, at the Derby Neck Library.
Contact: Elizabeth M. Green at 203-881-3255 or egreen@nvhd.org
Stamford, Connecticut
Activity: Health Fair
Date: April 19; 10am-3pm
The Stamford IAP Coordinator will staff a table to provide families with up-to-date information on immunizations for their child. The table will be located in the Stamford Government Center lobby.
Contact: Cinthia Vera at 203-977-5098
Torrington, Connecticut
Activity: Health and Fitness Festival
Date: April 26; 10am-1pm
The Health and Fitness Festival will feature health screenings and information, bike helmet giveaways, hands-on activities, and free health snacks. Special guest performances include MOMIX (dancer illusionists), the Forbes Flyers, McArdle School of Irish Dance, the Torrington High School Cheerleaders and Dance Team, and more. This festival will be held at the Torrington Armory.
Contact: Sue Sawula at 860-489-0436
Waterbury, Connecticut
Activity: Immunization Celebration
Date: April 24; 12-2pm
The City of Waterbury Department of Public Health will hold a press conference featuring Dr. Melinda Wharton (CDC), city officials and medical community. A children's health fair will also follow the press conference. Participating organizations include: the Greater Waterbury Breastfeeding Committee, Children's Health, Nutrition and Safety Advisory Committee, and New Opprtunities, Inc.
Contact: Randy Ann York at (203) 346-3907 or ryork@waterburyct.org
West Haven, Connecticut
Activity: Immunize for a Healthy Community
Date: April 24; 9am-11am
This free event will begin with a Mayoral proclamation followed by words from the West Haven Health Director and a message on childhood immunization from the Centers for Disease Control’s Dr. Melinda Wharton. Attractions include a performance by the West Haven High School Steppers, the American Lung Association’s Breath Express, and an interactive story enacted by the Connecticut Storytelling Center. Local immunization providers will be recognized and refreshments will be provided. This event will be held at the West Haven Community House.
Contact: Betty Murphy at 203-937-3665
Florida
Bradenton, Florida
Activity: 14th Annual Provider's Immunization Workshop
Date: April 24; 8am-4pm
The Manatee County Health Department [http://www.doh.state.fl.us/chdManatee/index.htm] will provide training for healthcare providers with guest speakers Donna Weaver RN, MN CDC; Robert Walker, MD FAAP, CPE – FLUMIST; George Banks, MD Sr Phycisian MCPHU – HPV; Lori Wright, BIO Imm Field Staff Manager - Vaccine Handling; and Eleanor Burris RN, School Health Supv.- School Guidelines. Other participating organizations include the Manatee County Head Start, the MCPHU WIC Department, and the MCPHU Mobile Van. Multiple speaker evaluations will be completed following their presentations.
Contact: Sandra Anderson at 941-748-0747 or sandra_anderson@doh.state.fl.us
Tampa, Florida
Activity: Child Care Provider Workshop on Immunizations
Date: April 19; 8:30am-12:15pm
The Immunization Task Force of Hillsborough County [www.hillcounty.org] will host a workshop for parents and caregivers that includes presentations on immunization requirements for child care and kindergarten attendance, immunization recommendations for child care workers, lead, asthma and allergies, common outbreaks in child care centers, and information on infection control in child care centers. Those involved within the community are local hospitals, vaccine representatives, healthcare providers, health department and school nurses, and WIC & Vital Statistics. Evaluation forms and certificates of completion will be provided.
Contact: Margaret Ewen at 813-307-8015 or margaret_ewen@doh.state.fl.us
Georgia
Jonesboro, Georgia
Activity: NIIW Poster Display
Date: Ongoing
The Clayton County Board of Health partnered with the Clayton County Library System to display posters from CDC’s print campaign and distributed bookmarks at check-out counters.
Contact: Freda Sheppard at 678-610-7565 or flsheppard@dhr.state.ga.us
Illinois
Chicago, Illinois
Activity: NIIW Kick-Off Event
Date: April 21; 12pm-1pm
Representatives from the Chicago Department of Public Health, Lawndale Christian Health Center, and the Alderman's office will address the importance of timely infant immunizations in the form of a news conference as part of the Chicago Area Immunization Campaign. This media kick-off event will be held at Lawndale Christian Health Center, 3860 W Ogden Avenue in Chicago. For additional information about the Illinois Maternal & Child Health Coalition, please visit www.ilmaternal.org.
Contact: Brian Bragg at 312-491-8161 or caic@ilmaternal.org
Indiana
South Bend, Indiana
Activity: Immunization Summit -Love Them, Protect Them, Immunize Them
Date: April 16, 2008; 7:30 - 11:30am
The St. Joseph County Health Department [www.stjosephcountyindiana.com] is organizing an Immunization Summit and conference for health care providers to increase awareness of under immunization within St Joseph County. Goals include identifying barriers related to access to vaccines and accurate reporting of immunizations and engaging participants in the development of a county wide action plan to increase immunization rates among children.
The St.Joseph County Health Department is collaborating and partnering with Memorial Hospital Foundation, St Joseph Regional Medical Center, and United Way of South Bend Indiana. An immunization focus group from multiple organizations within St Joseph County has been meeting to identify the issues impacting under immunization of children. The summit will provide an increased awareness of those issues to the medical community and to community leaders. A strategic plan will be developed with participants based on best practices that will ultimately increase immunization rates in our country. The task force will continue to address the issues and challenges facing our community post summit.
Contact: Barbara Baker at (574) 235-9745 or BBaker@co.st-joseph.in.us
Iowa
Mason City, Iowa
Activity: HealthFest
Date: April 24; 4pm - 6pm
Cerro Gordo County Dept. of Public Health [www.cghealth.com] will hold a HealthFest health fair at the local mall. Several public health services will be showcased. The immunization department will have a baby crawling contest. Participants will receive a cookie, and their name will go in a drawing for a $100 gift certificate from a local photographer. Local media coverage is anticipated for this event. Children will also color a picture, with an immunization message, which is actually an iron-on transfer that will then be transferred onto a canvas bag for them carry their "treasures" in. Participating organizations include Photography by Michelle and Cookies, etc.
Contact: Betty Krones at (641) 421-9320 or dps@cghealth.com
Louisiana
Metairie, Louisiana
Activity: NIIW Advertising
Date: April 19-26
The Louisiana Shots for Tots Coalition [www.shotsfortots.com] is placing 175 banners on the outside of public and private providers of immunization across the state of Louisiana that say "Love Them, Protect Them, Vaccinate Them". For additional information, including an extensive community listing and to see the banners, visit Louisana’s website.
Contact: Gina Deris at 504-838-5300 or gderis@dhh.la.gov
Metairie, Louisiana
Activity: Infant Immunization Week
Date: April 21-25
DHH-OPH Immunization Program will compare LINKS Reminder Recalls, targeted to children 0-6 and 11-13 years of age, to the number of shots updated.
Contact: Quan Le at 504-838-5300 or qle@dhh.la.gov
New Orleans, Louisiana
Activity: Infant Immunization Week
Date: April 21-25; 8am-4pm
New Orleans Health Department will use Infant Immunization Week to improve mmunization coverage in Orleans Parish. The Louisiana DHH-OPH will also participate. For evaluation purposes, all immunizations will be entered and updated into LINKS.
Contact: Donna Malus at 504-658-2510 or DMalus@cityofno.com
Thibodaux, Louisiana
Activity: Terrebonne Parish Health Unit
Date: April 19-26
The Region 3 Office of Public Health and the Terrebonne Parish Health Unit, located at 600 Polk Street in Houma, will offer immunizations each day of the week of NIIW where walk-ins and appointments are accepted. Event hours are 8am-4:30pm each day, with the exception of a late immunization clinic on April 24, ending at 6pm. Immunization information will be handed out to parents and patients from Louisiana Shots for Tots, such as "Why Immunize" and "Got Shots". The Shots for Tots Banner will be displayed inside the Health Unit stating "Love Them, Protect Them, Vaccinate Them". Shots for Tots coloring Books and crayons will be given to the children receiving vaccinations, along with Shots for Tots stickers. Vaccinations will be given at no cost the week of NIIW.
Contact: Jill Loupe at 985-447-0916 or jloupe@dhh.la.gov
Activity: Assumption Parish Health Unit
Date: April 19-26
The Region 3 Office of Public Health and the Assumption Parish Health Unit, located at 158 Hwy 1008 in Napoleonville, will offer immunizations each day of the week of NIIW where walk-ins and appointments are accepted. Event hours are 8am-4:30pm each day, with the exception of a late immunization clinic on April 22, ending at 6pm. Immunization information will be handed out to parents and patients from Louisiana Shots for Tots, such as "Why Immunize" and "Got Shots". The Shots for Tots Banner will be displayed inside the Health Unit stating "Love Them, Protect Them, Vaccinate Them". Shots for Tots coloring Books and crayons will be given to the children receiving vaccinations, along with Shots for Tots stickers. Vaccinations will be given at no cost the week of NIIW.
Contact: Jill Loupe at 985-447-0916 or jloupe@dhh.la.gov
Activity: Lafourche Parish Health Unit
Date: April 19-26
The Region 3 Office of Public Health and the Lafourche Parish Health Unit, located at 2535 Veterans Blvd. in Thibodaux, will offer immunizations each day of the week of NIIW where walk-ins and appointments are accepted. Event hours are 8am-4:30pm each day, with the exception of a late immunization clinic on April 24, ending at 6pm. Immunization information will be handed out to parents and patients from Louisiana Shots for Tots, such as "Why Immunize" and "Got Shots". The Shots for Tots Banner will be displayed inside the Health Unit stating "Love Them, Protect Them, Vaccinate Them". Shots for Tots coloring Books and crayons will be given to the children receiving vaccinations, along with Shots for Tots stickers. Immunization information in the theme of "Shrek" will be displayed in the lobby of the Health Unit. “Shrek” and “Fiona” will make an appearance for the children in the afternoon. Movies will play in the waiting room for the children. Vaccinations will be given at no cost the week of NIIW.
Contact: Jill Loupe at 985-447-0916 or jloupe@dhh.la.gov
Activity: Lafourche Parish Health Unit-Galliano
Date: April 19-26
The Region 3 Office of Public Health and the Lafourche Parish Health Unit, located at 133 West 112th Street in Galliano, will offer immunizations each day of the week of NIIW where walk-ins and appointments are accepted. Event hours are 8am-4:30pm each day, with the exception of a late immunization clinic on April 24, ending at 6pm. Immunization information will be handed out to parents and patients from Louisiana Shots for Tots, such as "Why Immunize" and "Got Shots". The Shots for Tots Banner will be displayed inside the Health Unit stating "Love Them, Protect Them, Vaccinate Them". Shots for Tots coloring Books and crayons will be given to the children receiving vaccinations, along with Shots for Tots stickers. Vaccinations will be given at no cost the week of NIIW.
Contact: Jill Loupe at 985-447-0916 or jloupe@dhh.la.gov
Activity: St. James Parish Health Unit
Date: April 19-26
The Region 3 Office of Public Health and the St.James Parish Health Unit, located at 29170 Health Unit Street in Vacherie, will offer immunizations each day of the week of NIIW where walk-ins and appointments are accepted. Event hours are 8am-4:30pm. Immunization information will be handed out to parents and patients from Louisiana Shots for Tots, such as "Why Immunize" and "Got Shots". The Shots for Tots Banner will be displayed inside the Health Unit stating "Love Them, Protect Them, Vaccinate Them". Shots for Tots coloring Books and crayons will be given to the children receiving vaccinations, along with Shots for Tots stickers. Vaccinations will be given at no cost the week of NIIW.
Contact: Jill Loupe at 985-447-0916 or jloupe@dhh.la.gov
Activity: St. John Parish Health Unit
Date: April 19-26
The Region 3 Office of Public Health and the St. John Parish Health Unit, located at 473 Central Avenue in Reserve, will offer immunizations each day of the week of NIIW where walk-ins and appointments are accepted. Event hours are 8am-4:30pm. Immunization information will be handed out to parents and patients from Louisiana Shots for Tots, such as "Why Immunize" and "Got Shots". The Shots for Tots Banner will be displayed inside the Health Unit stating "Love Them, Protect Them, Vaccinate Them". Shots for Tots coloring Books and crayons will be given to the children receiving vaccinations, along with Shots for Tots stickers. Sugar Free Safety Pops will be given to age-appropriate children. Vaccinations will be given at no cost the week of NIIW.
Contact: Jill Loupe at 985-447-0916 or jloupe@dhh.la.gov
Activity: St. Mary Parish Health Unit
Date: April 19-26
The Region 3 Office of Public Health and the St. Mary Parish Health Unit, located at 1200 David Drive in Morgan City, will offer immunizations each day of the week of NIIW where walk-ins and appointments are accepted. Event hours are 8am-4:30pm each day, with the exception of a late immunization clinic on April 21, ending at 6pm. Immunization information will be handed out to parents and patients from Louisiana Shots for Tots, such as "Why Immunize" and "Got Shots". The Shots for Tots Banner will be displayed inside the Health Unit stating "Love Them, Protect Them, Vaccinate Them". Shots for Tots coloring Books and crayons will be given to the children receiving vaccinations, along with Shots for Tots stickers. St. Mary Parish School Board will be advertising the event through the school system and local hospital. Vaccinations will be given at no cost the week of NIIW.
Contact: Jill Loupe at 985-447-0916 or jloupe@dhh.la.gov
Minnesota
Crookston, Minnesota
Activity: Crookston Hugos Grocery Store NIIW Celebration
Date: April 24, 4-6pm
Polk County Public Health [http://www.pcphealth.org] and are celebrating NIIW through several planned activities: (1) Immunization talking points will be provided to all immunization providers in the county; (2) An NIIW news release will be distributed; (3) Inserts will be provided for all county church bulletins; (4) Public health nurses will wear NIIW stickers. Cookston Hugos Grocery store also plans to participate in the NIIW celebration. NIIW will be recognized and promoted at Polk County Public Health with a display throughout the month of April.
Contact: June Bergh at 218-281-3385 or jbergh@pcphealth.org
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Activity: OB-GYN Mailing
Date: month of April
To celebrate NIIW, the Minnesota Department of Health (www.health.state.mn.us/immunize) mailed out a Newborn Immunization Folder to 400 OB-GYNs, inviting them to educate their pregnant patients about childhood immunizations. The folder is available free of charge in English, Spanish, and Somali. Materials were distributed through Minnesota birthing hospitals. Also included in the mailing were our Perinatal Hepatitis B Carrier Pregnancy Report form and the adult immunization schedule. It is anticipated that the nine months of pregnancy may be an even better time for new moms to learn about immunizations. The goal is to receive and track orders for Newborn Folders from OB-GYNs and to consider additional communications with them.
Contact: Susan Ersted at 651-201-5516 or susan.ersted@health.state.mn.us
Winona, Minnesota
Activity: Winona County Celebrates NIIW
Date: April 9-26, times vary
Winona County Public Health will air PSAs on all local radio stations. Dr. Schuchat’s letter to parents and caregivers will appear in both local newspapers as a "guest view" as will an editorial by the immunization coordinator; information in the form of Frequently Asked Questions will also be printed in the newspapers. "Big Shot" interviews are scheduled for radio. Various print ads will be visible. A flyer will be sent to all daycare providers. Information in Spanish will be provided to Project Fine. Participating organizations include School District 861, Winona Health, Family Medicine, Lewiston School District, Cornerstone Health, Olmstead Medical Center in St. Charles, and DHS.
Contact: Kathy Piscitiello at 507-457-6400 or kpiscitiello@co.winona.mn.us
Nevada
Carson City, Nevada
Activity: Childhood Immunization Day
Date: April 16, 2008; 10:00am - 2:30pm
The Carson City Health and Human Services is hosting immunization clinic for children 6 months through 18 years of age. Participating organizations include the Carson City School District, Carson Tahoe Medical Center, MedDirect, and Western Nevada College.
Contact: Marena Works at (775) 887-2190 or mworks@ci.carson-city.nv.us
Las Vegas, Nevada
Activity: Nevada Infant Immunization Week
Date: April 19-26
Southern Nevada Immunization Coalition (SNIC) [www.immun] is partnering with Nevada Covering Kids and Families and the Nevada Immunization Program to sponsor a week of immunization activities in recognition of Nevada Infant Immunization Week, National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) and Cover the Uninsured Week.
A special press event highlighting the importance of protecting against vaccine-preventable diseases and health care coverage for children will be held on Monday, April 21. Dr. Lance Rodewald (CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases), Dawn Gibbons (Nevada’s First Lady), Nevada State Immunization Program staff, Las Vegas Housing Authority leaders, SNIC coalition members and other local, state and federal representatives will be present at the news event and community fair featuring free immunizations, dental screening, lead testing, vision screening, face painting and other activities for young children. A community roundtable discussion will have Dr. Rodewald as the keynote speaker as well as a parent forum to discuss issues related to immunization and access to health care.
The community will be able to take advantage of the immunization clinics and application assistance for Medicaid and Nevada Check Up that will take place across the valley. Visit the website for community listing.
Contact: Pam Beal at 702-933-7329 or pbeal@HealthInsight.org
Reno, Nevada
Activity: Health Fair Offers Free Immunization Clinics for children 6 years of age and younger
Date: April 21-26, 2008
The Nevada Immunization Coalitions [www.immunizenevada.org], including over 30 organizations and 100 volunteers, will come together to hold free childhood vaccination clinics for children from birth to six years of age at multiple locations throughout Nevada.
Contact: Heidi Hurst at (775) 770-6713 or heidi.hurst@chw.edu
New Jersey
Newark, New Jersey
Activity: Immunization Awareness Walk, "Walk a Mile to Save a Child!
Date: April 21; 10am-12pm
The Newark Department of Child and Family Well-Being will host a walk-a-mile activity involving local community residences. The walk will begin at the City Hall on Broad Street, Newark, and end at Lincoln Park. The walk will be rescheduled on April 22 in the event of rain.
Contact: Jeannette Burgos at 973-733-7580 or jburgos@njlincs.net
East Orange, New Jersey
Activity: Immunization Awareness Walk - "Walk a Mile to Save a Child!"
Date: April 26; 9am
The East Orange General Hospital, City of Orange, and City of East Orange will host a walk-a-mile activity involving local community residences. The walk will begin at Orange Park (Orange, NJ) and end at East Orange General Hospital's Medical Arts Building. A health fair will also take place at the Medical Arts Building from 9am-2pm for parents and caregivers of infants and children up to age 16 years.
Contact: Theresa Combs at 973-266-4454 or combst@evh.org
Irvington, New Jersey
Activity: Immunization Awareness Walk and Balloon Launch
Date: April 22; 9-11:15am
The Irvington Health Department walk will take place at the Augusta Street Preschool at 97 Augusta Street and will encourage participation from local community residences. Participating organizations include Irvington Public Schools, Office of Early Childhood, Irvington Department of Health Leaguers Head Start programs - Montgomery St. and Marshall, Irvington Community Health Center (FQHC), New Jersey Dept. of Health and Senior Services/ Vaccine Preventable Disease Program.
Contact: Sandy Harris at 973-399-6647 or plasmodium99@yahoo.com
Camden, New Jersey
Activity: Immunization Awareness Walk
Date: April 25; 11am
CAMcare Health Corporation [http://www.camcare.net] will host an immunization awareness walk. Walk participants will meet at the Camden Day Nursery and proceed walking along the marked route. There will also be a luncheon and awards ceremony following the walk which will recognize the CAMcare Health Corporation and their associates for their efforts to increase provider participation in the immunization registry.
Contact: Cynthia Primas-Taylor at 856-541-3270 or cynthia@camcare.net
New York
Fort Edward, New York
Activity: Immunization Education and Clinic
Date: Ongoing activity
Fort Hudson Nursing Center will have Dr. Phillip Gara give a presentation and a quiz to educate healthcare providers prior to vaccination and to help decrease declinations. Our compliance this year for staff has increased to 92%, which is up from our average of 80%.
Contact: Tamela Barry at 518-747-2811 or tbarry@forthudson.com
North Carolina
Asheboro, North Carolina
Activity: Gifts for Kids
Date: April 19-26; 8am-5pm
During National Infant Immunization Week, the Randolph County Health Department will give gifts bags to all children after receiving immunizations. The gift bags will contain information on dental services, vaccination, and WIC, an immunization schedule, a bulletin about the Tdap requirement for 6th graders, a reading book, coloring book and crayons, a new toothbrush, stickers, and age-appropriate toy. Fever-reducing Tylenol samples will be given to parents along with usage instructions as per standing orders. Other contributing organizations are WIC, Dental Clinic, CSC, and the Health Education and Immunization Clinic.
Contact: Karen Rich at 336-318-6258 or kbrich@co.randolph.nc.us
Ohio
Cleveland, Ohio
Activity: Infant Immunization Information
Date: April 24; 10am-2pm
The Cleveland Department of Public Health [www.clevelandhealth.org] provided outreach information to parents and caregivers at Tower City in downtown Cleveland on services offered; immunization information, including how and why children should be fully immunized; immunization schedules; incentives; clinic hours and locations. Due to the successful attendance of this event, we’ve scheduled another event for April 25 at the City Hall. Among those participating in this event were the IAP, nurses, MomsFirst, WIC, Steps to Healthier Living, Lead Childhood Lead Prevention.
Contact: Bertha Millner or Mary L. Benjamin at 216-664-4150 or mbenjamin@city.cleveland.oh.us
Activity: Infant Information Immunization Drive
Date: April 25; 10am-2pm
The Cleveland Department of Public Health [www.clevelandhealth.org] distributed immunization information to parents and caregivers at the City Hall while a nurse was on-hand to answer questions on childhood immunization. The plan is to continue providing information to the City Hall and maintain availability of services offered.
Contact: Bertha Millner or Mary L. Benjamin at 216-664-4150 or mbenjamin@city.cleveland.oh.us
Marietta, Ohio
Activity: Preschool Presentations
Marietta City Health Department [www.mariettaoh.net] mailed letters to all preschools in the Washington County area in an effort to schedule presentations for as many preschools as possible. The immunization grant nurse will read the stories, "Germs Are Not for Sharing" and "Lions Aren't Scared of Shots". Children will engage in a craft activity that involves drawing two items: (1) a sad face with dots/spots on it to represent a child who did not get shots and is now ill, (2) a happy face with a vaccine sticker on it to represent a child who bravely got shots and is healthy. Children will also receive a vaccine-themed coloring book and a note to parents with information about the presentation. It is anticipated that preschool teachers will be asked to complete a short, written evaluation in addition to being asked for verbal feedback
Contact: Cindy Farr at (740) 373-0611 or cindyfarr@mariettaoh.net
Oklahoma
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Activity: Be Wise Immunize at the Week of the Young Child 2008
Date: April 26, 2008; 10am-2pm
The Tulsa Area Immunization Coalition [www.tulsaimmunize.org] is hosting a free event for childhood immunizations, early childhood parenting and community education,nutrition information, free screenings for vision, dental, development, speech, lead poisoning for the children, free entertainment from Radio Disney ("ROCK OUT WITH RADIO DISNEY!"), clowns, face painting, meet Miss Tulsa 2008 Tiffany Tolbert(her platform is immunizations!), free refreshments and door prizes, Safe Kids car sear checks from 10 am until 12 pm, water safety education and free water watcher tags, tours of Tulsa Police, Fire, EMSA, and Sheriff's vehicles as well as the Fire Safety Trailer, mounted horse patrol, childcare resource center bookstore, hands-on activities for children, Roller Rodeo-bring a bike, scooter, skateboard, helmet. Free bike helmets will be provided from Safe Kids while they last! Each child will receive a free book from the Tulsa City-County Library System(English or Spanish). Buddy the Book Worm from the Tulsa Library System, Scrubby Bear, Blaze the Dragon from Blue Shield Caring Program, Tulsa Drillers' Baseball mascot hornsby, and TAIC mascot Percy the Penguin will be there-mascots galore! For immunizations, child must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and must bring current immunization record.
We will conduct post-evaluation of the event with all involved groups, examine statistics of immunizations given, etc. Participating organizations within the community include the Tulsa Area Immunization Coalition, Tulsa City-County Health Department, Blue Cross Blue Shield Caring Program of Oklahoma, Rotary International, Oklahoma Department of Human Services, Safe Kids, Early Childhood Association of Oklahoma, Tulsa Technology Center, Radio Disney and many others!
Contact: Katherine A. Sebert at (918) 595-4514 or ksebert@tulsa-health.org
Oregon
Portland, Oregon
Activity: 2008 OPIC Awards Breakfast
Date: April 24; 7:30-9:30am
The purpose of the annual Oregon Partnership to Immunize Children (OPIC) [www.oregon.gov/dhs/ph/imm] Awards is to honor individuals or organizations which have significantly contributed to increasing childhood and/or adolescent immunization awareness and/or the rate of immunizations in Oregon. Awards honor recipients in these categories: Individual Leadership, Innovative Partnership, Model Program, Media and Promotion, Immunization Provider, Public Health Organization, and OPIC Champion. Dr. Deborah Wexler, MD, Executive Director of the Immunization Action Coalition (www.immunize.org), will be our Guest Speaker. OPIC will issue a press release about NIIW and the OPIC Awards Recipients. The OPIC Executive Committee List is available at www.oregon.gov/dhs/ph/imm; click on OPIC where you will find a list of the 2008 OPIC Award Winners, along with a list of 1997-2007 recipients. This event will be evaluated through the use of a questionnaire (Likert Scale).
Contact: Karen R. Elliott at (971) 673-0285 or karen.r.elliott@state.or.us
Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Activity: In Recognition of NIIW
Date: April 19-26
In recognition of NIIW, the Allegheny County Immunization Coalition has planned several outreach activities geared to educate parents, providers, and the community via radio, print and an outreach activity. 375 Allegheny County Health Department staff will receive paycheck stuffers on April 18th to kick off awareness. Radio spots will be aired throughout the week on a local radio channel with a large target audience of women in their child bearing years. An outreach event has been planned at a FQHC located in a community outreach center on Monday, April 21, 2008 from 9am to 12pm. 59 families with infants enrolled at this center received special flyers created by nursing students in the mail inviting them to participate. Flyers were also posted around the community center reaching out to their family support center, daycare, and WIC participants. Educational and promotional items will be distributed and a healthy snack provided. Participants will have the opportunity to win a basket full of infant items. Adacel will be offered free of charge to adolescents and adults who have contact with infants and young children.
Participants will be asked to complete a short survey the day of the event to measure the impact of the mailings, flyers, and services offered. Participating organizations include the Allegheny County Immunization Coalition, Allegheny County Health Department, WIC, Wilkinsburg Family Health Center, Sanofi, and the University of Pittsburgh Nursing Program.
Contact: Nancy McManus at 412-578-7959 or nmcmanus@achd.net
Rhode Island
Providence, Rhode Island
Activity: Immunizaton Outreach
Date: ongoing
The Free Immunization Clinic at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Providence, will distribute a bag of school supplies to children after being immunized, which includes general information about vaccines. Immunization information provided is also provided to parents and caregivers.
Contact: Valerie Glass at (401) 456-4359 or VGlass@saintjosephri.com
Activity: Rhode Island Childhood Immunization Coalition
Date: April 24, 12-2pm
The Rhode Island Department of Health [http://www.health.ri.gov] will provide a forum for healthcare provider education. Melinda Wharton, MD,MPH and her staff will visit Rhode Island during NIIW. Dr. Wharton will attend AAP Spring Training and will address medical staff. Objectives include: (1) to identify vaccines currently recommended for routine use in children, focusing on the newest recommendations, emphasizing the timeliness of vaccination; (2) to identify potential new vaccines that could be introduced into the vaccine schedule and the likely target groups for each; and (3) to better address parental concerns about vaccine safety.
Contact: Kathy Marceau at 401-222-4624 or kathy.marceau@health.ri.gov
Activity: School Nurse Teacher Conference/Pedi Grand Rounds/Child DayCare /RIAAP Training
Date: April 24, 6pm
The Rhode Island Department of Health [http://www.health.ri.gov] will provide a forum for healthcare provider education. Melinda Wharton, MD,MPH and her staff will visit Rhode Island during NIIW. Dr. Wharton will attend AAP Spring Training and will address medical staff. Objectives include: (1) to identify vaccines currently recommended for routine use in children, focusing on the newest recommendations, emphasizing the timeliness of vaccination; (2) to identify potential new vaccines that could be introduced into the vaccine schedule and the likely target groups for each; and (3) to better address parental concerns about vaccine safety.
Contact: Kathy Marceau at 401-222-4624 or kathy.marceau@health.ri.gov
Activity: Pediatric Grand Rounds; Rhode Island Hospital, Providence
Date: April 25, 8:30-9:30am
The Rhode Island Department of Health [http://www.health.ri.gov] will provide a forum for healthcare provider education. Melinda Wharton, MD,MPH and her staff will visit Rhode Island during NIIW. Dr. Wharton will attend and address medical staff. Objectives include: (1) to identify vaccines currently recommended for routine use in children, focusing on the newest recommendations, emphasizing the timeliness of vaccination; (2) to identify potential new vaccines that could be introduced into the vaccine schedule and the likely target groups for each; and (3) to better address parental concerns about vaccine safety.
Contact: Kathy Marceau at 401-222-4624 or kathy.marceau@health.ri.gov
Activity: Press Event—Governor and Senator Reed (Invited)
Date: April 25, 3pm
The Rhode Island Department of Health [http://www.health.ri.gov] will provide a forum for healthcare provider education. Melinda Wharton, MD,MPH and her staff will visit Rhode Island during NIIW. CDC will present recognition award to Rhode Island. Dr Wharton will hold a question and answer session with parents at an inner city Child Care Center, Connecting For Children and Families of Woonsocket, Rhode Island. Items on the agenda include an award presented for high immunization rates, a Teddy Bear shot clinic where children bring a teddy bear to the childcare center for a vaccine administered by Thundermist Health Center staff.
Contact: Kathy Marceau at 401-222-4624 or kathy.marceau@health.ri.gov
Activity: School Nurse Teacher Conference, Rhode Island College
Date: April 26, 9:30 - 11am
The Rhode Island Department of Health [http://www.health.ri.gov] will provide a forum for healthcare provider education. Melinda Wharton, MD,MPH and her staff will visit Rhode Island during NIIW. Dr. Wharton will be the keynote speaker at the 2008 Annual School Nurse Teacher Conference and will talk about current immunization guidelines and vaccine safety. Every year the Rhode Island Department of Health and the Immunization Program host an Annual School Nurse Teacher Conference. Presentations on public health concerns of interest to school nurse teachers and daycare providers are discussed. The conference and luncheon is one way in which the Immunization program can provide updated information in a forum where feedback can be given to the state program. It is also an opportunity to thank these dedicated providers for a wonderful partnership aimed at keeping Rhode Island children healthy and immunized. School Nurse Teachers will be given a written evaluation to complete following Dr. Wharton's presentation.
Contact: Kathy Marceau at 401-222-4624 or kathy.marceau@health.ri.gov
Activity: East Bay Early Head Start, Community Baby Shower
Date: April 26, 12:30-2pm
The Rhode Island Department of Health [http://www.health.ri.gov] will provide a forum for healthcare provider education. Melinda Wharton, MD,MPH and her staff will visit Rhode Island during NIIW. Presentation items include vaccine safety issues for parents and the importance of child vaccinations. Children enrolled in licensed in-home childcare settings are invited to participate in a coloring contest. Winning child/home will receive summer fun basket. Coloring page will be on display.
Contact: Kathy Marceau at 401-222-4624 or kathy.marceau@health.ri.gov
South Carolina
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Activity: Vaccine for Changing Times
Date: April 24; 6 pm
Dr. Tamara Coyne-Beasley, Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics at UNC Chapel Hill will present "Vaccine for Changing Times" at The Charleston Marriott. The Tri-County Immunization Coalition [www.palmettoproject.org] will award plaques to the newborn nursery staff of each local hospital who are providing immunization information to every parent of a child born in the Tri-County area. The Coalition has invited over 300 members of our medical community, including but not limited to Sanofi Pasteur, Palmetto Project, Select Health, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston County School District, DHEC, Franklin C. Fetter Health Center, East Cooper Hospital, Roper St. Francis Hospital, Trident Health System, Head Start, and The Charleston Housing Authority. In addition to the celebration event, the Coalition will be providing area daycare centers with immunization packets, including bookmarks listing the local sites where immunizations are given.
Contact: Nancy Olson at (843) 266-5685 or nolson@palmettoproject.org
Tennessee
Memphis, Tennessee
Activity: Children's Immunization Health Fair and Clinic
Date: April 26
Memphis and Shelby County Health Department will open its doors on Saturday, April 26th, for a special children’s fair and clinic event for parents and caregivers. While receiving appropriate vaccines, physicals, and dental screenings, children will be treated to fun, games, and refreshments! Children's stories will be read and prizes will be given, including books, stickers, and coupons for free food with local merchants. Drawings will also be held throughout the day for grand prizes. Those assisting with this event include the Department of Human Services, Shelby County Headstart, Healthy Start, TennderCare, local daycare centers, Collierville Literacy Program, Memphis Zoo, and the Memphis and Shelby County Fire Departments.
Contact: Leeann Moss at 901-544-7708 or lmoss@co.shelby.tn.us
Texas
Austin, Texas
Activity: 3rd Annual Austin/Travis County Immunization Conference
Date: April 23; 11:30am-5:00pm
The Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department (Office of the Medical Director) will host a National Infant Immunization Week conference to provide professional training to healthcare providers on pediatric immunizations. Through the support of corporate and not-for-profit organizations, participants will be provided lunch and continuing education (pending) on childhood immunizations. Speakers will also review the importance of immunization, the successes and challenges we have faced over the years, as well as those we see in our future. The conference will also provide information about Austin/Travis County immunization resources allowing healthcare providers to make better health recommendations for all families.
Speakers include Jack Sims (Immunization Branch Manager, Texas Department of State Health Services), Ari Brown, M.D., F.A.A.P. (Capital Pediatric Group, Austin, Texas), and Jennie McLaurin, M.D., M.P.H. (Pediatrics and Health Disparities Specialist, Migrant Clinicians Network). Organizations contributing to these efforts are AMERIGROUP Community Care, Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department, Migrant Clinicians Network, St. David's Community Health Foundation, and Travis County Medical Alliance.
Contact: Rita Ortega at (512) 972-5538 or rita.ortega@ci.austin.tx.us
Belton, Texas
Activity: Celebration of National Infant Immunization Week
Date: April 26; 10am-2pm
Bell County Public Health District, in collaboration with other community partners, will hold their 4th NIIW Outreach/Celebration at the Central Fire Station located at 201 N. 28th St. in Killeen, Texas. Free immunizations, along with fire, nutrition, immunization, car, and public transit system route information, as well as other fun activities for the children, will be provided at the health fair. Partners include the Killeen Fire Department, the Bell County Public Health District's WIC Program, Hill Country Transit District's The HOP,AgriLIFE Extension Texas A&M System's-BLT Program, and Texas DSHS's SafeRiders Program.
Contact: Rachel Lofton at (254) 939-2091 or rlofton@bellcountyhealth.org
Bryan, Texas
Activity: Celebration of National Infant Immunization Week
Date: April 21-25
The Brazos County Health Department [www.brazoshealth.org] will be providing FREE mmunizations to infants 2-24 months of age in celebration of National Infant Immunization Week. Free Boo Boo bunnies, animal crackers, candy, coloring books, stickers, and face painting will be given by "Sparkles" the clown. This event will be held according to the following schedule: Monday (April 21)--8:30am-11:30am; Tuesday (April 22)--2pm-5:30pm; Wednesday (April 23)--8:30am-12pm; and Friday (April 25)--10am-12:30pm. Flyers were sent to daycares in the Bryan/College Station area promoting National Infant Immunization Week. An electronic newsletter was sent to various organizations.
Contact: Julie Anderson at 979-361-4440 or janderson@co.brazos.tx.us
El Paso, Texas
Activity: Free Immunizations for children through 5 years of age
Date: April 19-26
ProAction Community Health [www.pro-action.org] will be providing free immunizations to children 5 years of age and under in celebration of National Infant Immunization Week. It is important that all children are protected and because of so, removing barriers to immunization such as financial are integral to a successful immunization program.
Contact: Dusty Warden at (915) 533-3414 or dwarden@pro-action.org
Garland, Texas
Activity: Immunization Education & Outreach
Date: April 22-24
The Garland Health Department [www.ci.garland.tx.us] will provide immunization education and outreach related to vaccine safety to parents and caregivers at two local WIC clinics in Garland. Public health nurses will check immunization records to see if infants and children are up-to-date on vaccinations, especially for DTaP, #4. Staff will also check the statewide registry, ImmTrac, and enter validated records into the registry. Family goody bags will include Immunize Kids! Dallas Area Partnership brochures which list low cost immunization clinics in the Dallas area. As part of evaluation efforts, a tick sheet will be used to check off the numbers of children that are up-to-date and are referred.
Contact: Vikki Yeatts at 972-205-3370 or vyeatts@ci.garland.tx.us
San Antonio, Texas
Activity: National Infant Immunization Week - Vaccines For Children Appreciation Luncheon
Date: April 18; 12:30pm-2pm
San Antonio Mayor Phil Hardberger will officially proclaim April 19 through April 26, 2008 as “Infant Immunization Week” in San Antonio. The highlight of the week will be a National Infant Immunization Week - Vaccines for Children Appreciation Luncheon on Friday, April 18th at the Marriott Hotel, San Antonio Northwest. Vaccines for Children providers will be invited, along with immunization partners and community leaders. VFC providers will be recognized for outstanding immunization rates and a keynote speaker will deliver a luncheon immunization presentation by Dr. Sharon Humiston MD, MPH, FAAP. For additional information, visit the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District at www.sanantonio.gov/health.
Contact: Vivian B. Flores at 210-207-2868 or vivian.flores@sanantonio.gov
Virginia
Fairfax, Virginia
Activity: Understanding the Virginia Immunization Information System
Date: April 21; 9.30am
Tracking Immunizations is essential to the improvement of compliance rates. The Fairfax County Health Department (www.fairfaxcounty.gov) and The Diocese of Arlington will present information for private school nurses explaining the newly launched immunization registry in Virginia and its importance in helping health professionals to maximize immunization compliance. Participants will also be given the opportunity to register for future training sessions sponsored by the Virginia Department of Health.
Contact: Christine Carlock at (703) 346-8648 or Christine.carlock@fairfaxcounty.gov
Activity: It's Wise to Immunize Puppet Extravaganza!
Date: April 23; 10:30am
The Fairfax County Health Department (www.fairfaxcounty.gov) will emphasize the importance of immunizing “on time, every time” during a bilingual puppet presentation. Puppets will entertain the children while educating parents about the importance of vaccination, vaccine safety, and effectiveness. Parents and caregivers will complete an immunization fact survey which will be entered into a drawing to win a free haircut at a children's hair salon. The survey will be conducted at all toddler story time sessions within the Fairfax County Library system during the month of April. Surveys will be tallied and information gained will assist in planning further education needs. Cartoon Cuts Inc will also participate.
Contact: Christine Carlock at (703) 346-8648 or Christine.carlock@fairfaxcounty.gov
Activity: Immunization Awareness Survey
Date: April 21-28, 2008
Fairfax County Health Department (www.fairfaxcounty.gov) is conducting an immunization awareness survey, which highlights the importance, safety, and effectiveness of vaccines. The surveys will be available at two major shopping malls, Springfield and Fair Oaks malls. A community partner, Cartoon Cuts hair salon, will offer incentives for completing the survey. The information is informative and will educate adults, especially parents and caregivers in the community, about important immunization facts. Knowledge deficits revealed through the survey responses will serve as evaluation and to design follow-up educational programs.
Contact: Christine Carlock at (703) 246-8648 or Christine.carlock@fairfaxcounty.gov
Activity: Immunization Proclamation for community recognition
Date: April 21-28, 2008
Fairfax County Health Department (www.fairfaxcounty.gov) will issue immunization proclamations to recognize partner participation in the immunization awareness campaign. Nurses at The Reston Hospital Center will be recognized for their continual effort to educate parents about immunizations, vaccine safety and effectiveness, and the importance of timely vaccinations. The Fairfax Public Library will be recognized for their efforts in promoting community awareness through their support of the It's Wise to Immunize Puppet Show at the regional libraries. Oakton Library will host the National Immunization Puppet Show April 23rd at 10:30am. Surveys will be distributed to participants for evaluation purposes.
Contact: Christine Carlock at (703) 246-8648 or Christine.carlock@fairfaxcounty.gov
Washington
Olympia, Washington
Activity: Community Luncheon
Date: April 21; 12pm-1:30pm
Washington State Department of Health Immunization Program CHILD Profile [www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/immunize] will provide information to community leaders. Presentations will be given and a question/answer session will be held with CDC's Dr. Anne Schuchat and State Health Officer, Dr. Maxine Hayes. The event will be MC’d by Secretary of Health, Mary Selecky. The Sacred Heart Medical Center of Spokane, Washington, Spokane Regional Health District, and the Immunization Coalition of the Inland Northwest will also assist in these efforts.
Contact: Michele Roberts at 360-236-3720 or michele.roberts@doh.wa.gov
Activity: Media Availability
Date: April 21; 10am-10:30pm
Washington State Department of Health Immunization Program CHILD Profile [www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/immunize] will visiting The Kids Clinic in Spokane, Washington. The news conference will include media availability with Secretary of Health, Mary Selecky; CDC's Dr. Anne Schuchat; the Acting Health Officer, Spokane Regional Health District, Dr. Larry Jecha; and The Kids Clinic provider, Dr. Matt Thompson. There will be a presentation of the National Immunization Survey award to Washington State.
Contact: Michele Roberts at 360-236-3720 or michele.roberts@doh.wa.gov
Activity: Provider Training
Date: April 21; 7:30am-9am
Washington State Department of Health Immunization Program CHILD Profile [www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/immunize] will provide professional training for healthcare providers. Presentations will be given and question/answer session will be held with CDC's Dr. Anne Schuchat and State Health Officer Dr. Maxine Hayes. The Sacred Heart Medical Center of Spokane, Washington, will also assist in these efforts.
Contact: Michele Roberts at 360-236-3720 or michele.roberts@doh.wa.gov
Activity: Provider Training
Date: April 22; 7:30am-9am
Washington State Department of Health Immunization Program CHILD Profile [www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/immunize] will provide professional training for healthcare providers. Presentations will be given and question/answer session will be held with CDC's Dr. Anne Schuchat and State Health Officer, Dr. Maxine Hayes. The Swedish Medical Center of Seattle, Washington, will also assist in these efforts.
Contact: Michele Roberts at 360-236-3720 or michele.roberts@doh.wa.gov
Activity: Immunization Action Coalition of Washington Meeting
Date: April 22; 10:30am-12:30pm
Washington State Department of Health Immunization Program CHILD Profile [www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/immunize] will host a meeting with the Immunization Action Coalition for community leaders. Presentations will be given and a question/answer session will be held with CDC's Dr. Anne Schuchat and the State Health Officer, Dr. Maxine Hayes.
Contact: Michele Roberts at 360-236-3720 or michele.roberts@doh.wa.gov
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Content last reviewed on May 14, 2008
Content Source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases