Blog
Think Globally, Act Locally: Infant and Childhood Immunization
Local health departments are significant providers of vaccinations, and 88% of local health departments across the nation provide childhood immunization services. Often the “safety net” healthcare provider in the community, local health departments act as chief public health strategists, and are instrumental in providing immunization services, engaging community stakeholders, and implementing effective and sustainable practices.
Developing Improved Vaccines for Older Adults
By 2030, the number of adults age 65 years and older in the United States is expected to grow to 71 million—at least 20 percent of the total population. It is particularly important during this stage of life to maintain healthy lifestyles and habits. Receiving recommended immunizations is an essential part of that process.,,
Celebrating Global Public Health Heroes
As we celebrate our 45th anniversary, we are proud to honor three individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to public health: Kathryn M. Edwards, MD; Roger I. Glass, MD, PhD; and Anne Schuchat, MD (RADM, USPHS)…
3 Simple Questions To Determine Whether It Is A Cold Or The Flu
Answering three simple questions can quickly help you determine whether your child has a cold or if it is truly the flu…
Empowering Teens As Health Advocates
Improving teen engagement in their own health is key to preventing serious and deadly infectious diseases and empowering them to build healthy habits for life…
Did Not Having a Flu Shot Land Me in the Hospital?
For weeks I had been watching the news and reading heartbreaking stories about the dangers of flu this season. It never really crossed my mind that this could happen to me or that I could suffer bad complications from the flu. I always figured I was blessed with a great immune system and this was never a concern for me. Well, maybe I should have been a little more prepared…
Improving Conversations about Appropriate Antibiotic Use
Antibiotic resistance is a pressing public health issue, and together we can reduce this threat by optimizing antibiotic use and empowering ourselves to give the best care. Everyone can play a role in improving how antibiotics are prescribed and used so that these drugs are available when we need them the most.
A Forum for Cutting-Edge Vaccine Research Updates
The field of vaccinology continues to expand and innovate in basic science discovery, product development, market introduction, and adoption into immunization programs. Continual achievements are moving the field forward, with the expectation that many current, challenging diseases may become vaccine-preventable or vaccine-treatable in the near future…
Influenza Vaccination: Protecting Yourself by Protecting Your Community
When it comes to flu, it certainly is in your best interest to get vaccinated annually. But you can substantially improve your chances of protection by also promoting vaccination to all those around you. Become an advocate in your community so that everyone for whom vaccination is recommended gets vaccinated each year, not only to protect yourself, but also the community at-large.
A Heart Healthy Lifestyle Includes Adult Vaccines
Along with Valentine’s Day, February is also American Heart Month, a great time to commit to a healthy lifestyle and make small changes that can lead to a lifetime of heart health. NFID reminds those with heart disease to stay up-to-date on all recommended vaccines, especially flu, pneumococcal, Tdap, and shingles…