Get Healthy Carson City: Childhood immunizations save lives

Editor's Note: This column addresses topics related to the health of our community.

Give it a shot! Immunizations offer protection from many serious illnesses

Ensuring your child receives their childhood immunizations is an important part of protecting your child's health, as well as the health of others. Being immunized can help prevent your child from becoming ill and passing vaccine-preventable illnesses to those who may not be able to receive vaccinations.

In the 1950s, measles was prevalent, and some people even died from this serious disease. Today, the CDC predicts that few physicians just out of medical school will ever see a case of measles during their careers.

Disease rates have decreased due to successful vaccination programs, however, parents and healthcare providers must remain diligent. If vaccination rates decrease, it is likely that many of the diseases that we no longer consider a threat could return. The recent whooping cough (pertussis) outbreak in California underscores the need for continued participation in vaccine programs.

In celebration of National Infant Immunization Week, Carson City Health and Human Services will extend the hours of the clinic 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 28, to provide children 18 and younger with free vaccinations. It's a good time to get children caught up on all vaccinations, including teens preparing for college. In order to participate, parents need to bring your child's immunization card with you to the health department. (Adult immunizations will still be offered that day at our normal affordable rates.)

For more information about Health Department services, check out our website at www.gethealthycar soncity.org or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cchhs.

CLINICS

WHERE: Carson City Health and Human Services, 900 East Long St., Carson City

CALL: 775-887-2195

GENERAL CLINICS: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Wednesday and Friday by appointment

WELL CHILD VISITS: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays

MEN'S CLINIC: 4-6 p.m. Mondays. Call for an appointment.

IMMUNIZATION DAY: 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.; 1-4:30 p.m. Thursdays. No appointment needed.

Extended hours 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. April 28.

Vaccination is the best defense against the flu. CCHHS offers flu injections for $10.

• Cortney Bloomer and Valerie Cauhape, Carson City Health and Human Services.