National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is an annual observance to promote the benefits of immunizations and to improve the health of children two years old or younger.
According to Newark Health Department officials, in 2019, they are celebrating the 25th anniversary of NIIW with a pep rally at The Leaguers Day Care facility.
Officials say NIIW, set for April 27-May 4, 2019, will be celebrated as part of World Immunization Week (WIW), an initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO).
**NIIW provides an opportunity to:**
Highlight the dangers of vaccine-preventable diseases, especially to infants and young children, and the importance and benefits of childhood immunization.
Educate parents and caregivers about the importance of vaccination in protecting their children from birth against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Focus attention on immunization achievements and celebrate the accomplishments made possible through successful collaboration.
Step up efforts to protect children against vaccine-preventable diseases and thereby give them a healthy start in life.
Encourage better communication between parents and healthcare professionals.
The Newark Health Department wants to remind parents and caregivers of the importance of making and keeping needed immunization appointments.
The week will provide help to parents and caregivers to locate a healthcare professional who participates in the Vaccines for Children’s program, a federally funded program that provides vaccinations at no cost to children whose parents cannot afford to pay for them.
Officials say the endeavor will create events that attract community support and media interest in order to increase national and local coverage of stories on the importance of childhood immunization.
The Newark DOH vaccinates children 0-18 years of age, Monday – Friday from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm @ 110 William Street, Room 108. Please call (973) 733-7580 for additional information