YORK, Pa. - As your kids head back to school, you've probably finished off most of the things on your to-do list for the kids. But what about vaccinations? August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and York City Bureau of Health Medical Director Dr. Matthew Howie wants parents to be more informed about vaccinations.
The entire campaign is part of a push by the CDC which falls in line with students heading back to school. It raises awareness to the fact that diseases are fewer in the U.S. because of immunizations.
Autism and Health Concerns
Doctors say it is a myth that vaccinations cause autism. A 2013 study conducted by the CDC found that there was no link between the two. There have also been some concerns over the ingredients in vaccines like aluminum gels or aluminum salts . The aluminum works as an adjuvant, which improves the body’s immune response to the inactivated virus or bacteria. It’s been used for more than 70 years, and the amount used in vaccines is very low. The FDA requires testing of each vaccination to make sure its safety. Dr. Howie explained that testing can take 10 years or longer. Once a vaccine is in use, the FDA and CDC check any health problems after vaccination, by using a reporting system
Free Immunizations
The Bureau of Health is free offering immunizations to those who are eligible. The Clinic will be held on Thursday August 27th from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It's open to infants, toddlers, children, as well as adults. Children who are eligible must be York City residents; and must not have private health insurance, must be on Medicaid or must be eligible for the Vaccines for Children program.
Dr. Howie says that vaccinations are required by most schools, but there are rare exceptions when it comes to religion and personal beliefs.
For a full listing of back-to-school clinics, click here.