Immunization

Protecting yourself or your children from vaccine-preventable diseases is an important part of healthy living. While vaccines, like any medicine, can have side effects, they are an important tool in the fight against dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases.

The CDC has issued a Childhood and Adolescent Immunization Schedule (which can be viewed and/or downloaded from the link below, see “Helpful Resources”) for recommended vaccination throughout childhood. It is important to know that even though many infectious diseases have been reduced or eliminated, the viruses or bacteria that cause them are still a threat. Routine vaccinations have limited outbreaks of the diseases – but stopping immunizations would result in dangerous and possibly deadly outbreaks.

Immunizations are not just for kids! From influenza to tetanus, adults are getting vaccinated too. Generally, vaccination decisions for adults are made considering their health condition, age, lifestyle and occupation.

LLHD Childhood Immunization Program

In August 2020, Ledge Light Health District was awarded a $100,256 grant from the Connecticut Department of Public Health to implement the “SECT Immunization Action Program. Over the next five years, LLHD will work with local health care providers, schools, community organizations, and parents to increase childhood immunization rates across southeast Connecticut (SECT) and successfully link children at risk (for childhood diseases) to a medical home so their immunizations may be tracked. 

The Immunization Action Program grant will fund a unique public awareness campaign aimed at educating parents about the importance of getting vaccines that protect children from over 14 diseases such as polio, measles, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), rubella (German measles), mumps, tetanus, etc. The project will also provide assessments in pediatric practices to improve vaccine delivery, and an outreach and tracking program using the statewide immunization information system known as “CT WiZ”.  

To request a free copy of your or your child’s immunizations contact 860-509-7929. For more information on the SECT-IAP Program contact Cindy Barry, Senior Program Coordinator at 860-448-4883. 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to certain cancers in both men and women. But there is good news! The HPV vaccine, when given to preteens, ages 11 to 12, only requires two doses and can prevent 90% of these cancers from ever developing. Summer’s the perfect time to get caught up – so, catch up today on this and other important vaccines, contact your child’s pediatrician or school-based health center today or contact us at Ledge Light Health District at llhd.org or 860-448-4883.

National Infant Immunization Week

As in-person learning and playing become more common, on-time, recommended vaccination is even more urgent to help provide immunity again 14 different diseases!

For more information or to find a healthcare provider or childhood vaccinations near you, contact Ledge Light Health District at 860.448.4883.

National Influenza Vaccination Week  

You can assist our public health efforts to reduce death and illness due to flu this year – by sharing sample messages (in English and Spanish) and photos designed especially for Facebook, Twitter and your newsletters and flyers.  

Travel

If you are planning to travel to another country, you should consider the vaccination recommendations involved far enough in advance to obtain any required. For information about Traveler’s Health, including vaccination schedules, check with the CDC on their website.

Helpful Resources