National Infant Immunization Week highlights importance of protecting children from vaccine-preventable diseases

National Infant Immunization Week, April 24-30, 2022, is an annual observance highlighting the importance of protecting children two years and younger from vaccine-preventable diseases. This year, in particular, families are encouraged to stay on track for children’s routine checkups and recommended vaccinations following disruptions from COVID-19.

Through immunization, infants and children are protected from 14 vaccine-preventable diseases before age two. Routine childhood immunization among children born from 1994-2018 will prevent an estimated 419 million illnesses, 8 million hospitalizations and 936,000 early deaths over the course of their lifetimes (source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

Families should contact their primary care provider and/or pediatrician for guidance and an appointment.

Learn more from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.