Attention News Editor:

 

News Release                   For Immediate Release

May 7, 2003

 

National Immunization Awareness Week

 

May 11 to 17 is National Immunization Awareness Week.  In recognition of this week, Public Health is promoting awareness of three new vaccines that are now available to protect children against three serious childhood diseases.

 

Chickenpox is a common childhood disease.  It is often thought of as a harmless rite of passage for children.  However, it can result in some very serious health complications.  Out of 350,000 people who get chickenpox each year in Canada, nearly 1,900 children need to be hospitalized because of problems.  Chickenpox can lead to scarring, bacterial infections and pneumonia.  Every year, a few Canadians die as a result of complications of this disease.  The chickenpox or Varivax vaccine is recommended for individuals 12 months of age and older.  Only one dose of vaccine is needed except for those 13 years of age and older who need two doses 4 – 6 weeks apart. 

 

The streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria are spread very easily from person to person through close contact with others.  Infection can cause meningitis, blood infections, pneumonia and ear infections in babies and young children.  In Canada each year, over half a million children suffer from diseases caused by streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.  The pneumococcal or Prevnar vaccine is recommended for routine vaccination for all children 23 months of age and younger and should be considered for children 24 to 59 months of age, especially those who attend a group child care centre.   

 

Meningococcal bacteria can cause meningitis and blood infections.  This disease is spread from person to person by close contact, coughing or sneezing.  The disease is very serious and often results in death.  Children under the age of 1, teens and young adults are most at risk to contract this disease.  Menjugate or NeisVac-C vaccine is recommended for all children under five years of age, adolescents and young adults (especially those living in school dormitories, in close contact with others).

 

These vaccines are not yet provided free by the provincial government, but are covered by many private health insurance plans.

 

If you have any questions about these vaccines, please contact your doctor or the Public Health Unit.  Immunization really is your child’s best shot!

 

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For more information:

 

Corrie Marshall, Public Health Nurse

Vaccine Preventable Diseases Program

Grey Bruce Health Unit

(519) 881-1920