National Immunization Awareness Month
An annual awareness observed every August that serves as a reminder about the importance of getting recommended vaccines at during all stages of life. Vaccines not only protect against many serious diseases like whooping cough and measles, but also helps prevent the spread of illness to others through herd immunity. This means that if enough people have immunity against certain viruses or bacteria, it makes it difficult for the disease to spread. It is always encouraged to speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns you or your family may have about vaccines.
Vaccine-Preventable Diseases: (infectious diseases caused by viruses or bacteria that can be prevented with vaccines)
• Chickenpox (varicella)
• Dengue
• Diphtheria
• Flu (influenza)
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)
• HPV (human papillomavirus)
• Measles
• Meningococcal
• Mpox
• Mumps
• Pneumococcal
• Polio (poliomyelitis)
• Rotavirus
• RSV (respiratory syncytial virus)
• Rubella (German measles)
• Shingles (herpes zoster)
• Tetanus (lockjaw)
• Whooping cough (pertussis)
National Dog Month
August is also National Dog Month – a time to celebrate the bonds that humans and dogs share, promoting responsible dog ownership, and practicing proper pet care. Dogs help promote social connections that can lead to better mental health outcomes and they can help get you moving, encouraging daily exercise by going on walks.
During the summer, the Lynn Public Health Division, with the help of our summer youth workers, developed a “Scoop the Poop” campaign, encouraging owners to pick-up after their pets, and the importance it has on the environment. Pet waste contains many harmful bacteria that can lead to public health risks and environmental damage if not disposed of properly.