August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and the Dallas County Health Department is urging families to stay up to date. 

Health Navigation Coordinator Ann Cochran says that this annual observance is a great reminder to those who need to review or update their vaccinations, especially with children heading back to school. She explains that being up to date on recommended immunizations is the most effective way to protect someone from serious or deadly vaccine-preventable diseases. 

“Third graders and 10th graders have some particular immunizations, vaccinations that they’re supposed to have before they start school. Most licensed preschools also require these. So if you haven’t done so yet, you want to check with your child’s doctor’s office and make sure they’re caught up with everything.”

She notes that someone should also ask the physician about completing screenings, while they’re getting their immunizations.