16 Apr 2009
Immunization is one of the greatest public health advances in the history of humankind. It’s been so successful a prevention measure that the public no longer has a memory of the resulting illness and death that once-common diseases like measles, mumps and diphtheria can cause. As a result, we are seeing a resurgence of vaccine-preventable illnesses, particularly in children.
Last spring, a number of health units in Ontario, including Simcoe Muskoka, were busy tracking down children, reviewing immunization records and recommending measures to prevent the spread of measles after they were exposed to the virus at various sports tournaments in the province. Measles, the most contagious of vaccine-preventable diseases, can lead to ear infections and pneumonia and can also cause encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain.
Immunization works by introducing a small amount of antigen to create a memory in the body’s immune system. The immune system learns to recognize this disease without the person actually becoming ill. Later, if that same immune system comes in contact with the disease, the body is prepared to fight the disease off quickly.
When children are immunized, their bodies make antibodies or protection that fight specific infections. If they are not protected and come in contact with one of these infections, they may get sick and potentially experience complications or even, in rare cases, die.
Immunization offers protection for more than just the individual. Immunization protects communities by preventing the spread of disease—as more people are immunized, the risk of disease for everyone is reduced.
It’s also important to remember that immunization isn’t just for children. Recent outbreaks of mumps on college campuses across Canada are a reminder of the importance of immunization through out one’s life span. A booster shot of measles, mumps, and rubella is now recommended for those born between 1970 and 1992.
Adults, in general, need a tetanus (lockjaw) and diphtheria booster every 10 years, an influenza shot annually, travel vaccines as needed and those immunizations missed in childhood.
With so much information about immunization available today, it’s easy for parents to feel overwhelmed. It’s important that parents make an informed choice about immunization, which includes both the benefits as well as the risks. Talk to your health care provider and make sure all of your questions are answered. Don’t forget to ask about your own immunization status.
For more information about immunizations, visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org or call Your Health Connection weekdays at 721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.
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