2008 News
August 26, 2008
Adult Immunization Awareness Night with the Phillies is Huge Success
Bucks County Health Department Steps Up to the Plate to Increase Awareness
Immunization Coalitions of Southeastern PA, including members of the Bucks County Health Department, teamed up with the Philadelphia Phillies to promote awareness of adult immunizations to prevent serious illness and diseases. The Phillies observed Adult Immunization Awareness Night, on Monday August 25th as they took on the Los Angeles Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park.
Area coalitions from Bucks, Chester, Montgomery and Delaware counties, the Lehigh Valley, the Martin Foundation and Philadelphia Immunization Coalition had over 500 tickets purchased in their name. In return, the Phillies donated an adult immunization PSA on the big screen, and welcomed Diane McGowan, whose son died of influenza- related complications, to throw out the first pitch. White rally towels with the theme “Cover your Bases, Get Immunized” were given out to ticket holders who purchased through the coalitions.
Many adults recognize that immunizations play an important part in keeping infants and children healthy. But many do not realize that vaccination remains the safest and most cost effective way to prevent serious illness, infection and possible death among adults. Immunizations are not only for infants and children, but should continue throughout a person’s whole life.
Through immunizations, adults can prevent diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, meningococcal disease, hepatitis A & B, shingles, measles, mumps, rubella and chicken pox. Staying up to date with your immunizations can not only protect you, but can protect those around you, such as family, friends, and your community as your helping to reduce the spread of disease.
- Each year more than 50,000 adults die from vaccine preventable disease
- One third of Pertussis cases are in adults
- In the United States 36,000 deaths occur each year from influenza, a vaccine preventable disease.
- Hepatitis A is the most common vaccine preventable disease acquired while traveling
- Influenza vaccine to prevent the flu is now recommended from infants 6 mo of age and older
To learn more about immunizations across the lifespan speak to your physician to find out what vaccines are right for you. For more information, contact the Bucks County Health Department at 215-345-3318 and www.buckscounty.org.