Milwaukee Health Department urges vaccinations during National Immunization Awareness Month

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) and the City of Milwaukee Health Department is highlighting the importance of routine vaccinations for people of all ages. 

According to a news release from the health department, many people missed routine vaccinations during the COVID pandemic, and immunization rates across the country -- including within Milwaukee - saw a concerning decrease. 

The health department says, you have the power to protect yourself, your children, and your community against serious, preventable diseases.

Routine vaccinations during childhood and adolescence can prevent many diseases that were once common, such as measles, polio, cancers caused by HPV, and whooping cough. Some adults are unaware that there are also recommended vaccines for their age groups including vaccines to prevent influenza, shingles, and pneumococcal disease.

To ensure the health and safety of families and our community:

• Check your child’s immunization status through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry.
• Talk to your healthcare provider about getting caught up on any missed well-child visits or routine vaccinations.
• Learn how to prepare your child for their immunization appointment, including tips on how to make the visit less stressful for your child.
• Review the child and adolescent immunization schedule.
• Talk to your trusted healthcare provider or utilize reputable sources to get answers to any of your questions about immunizations.
• Use the CDC’s adult vaccine assessment tool to see if any vaccines are recommended for you.
• Talk to your family, friends, and community about the importance of immunizations.

The Milwaukee Health Department immunization clinics can provide vaccinations free of charge to children (18 years of age or younger) who meet one of the following criteria:

• Child is uninsured (no medical insurance)
• Child is enrolled in or eligible for Medicaid/BadgerCare
• Child is Native American or Alaska Native

Milwaukee Health Department Immunization Clinic Hours of Operation:

Northwest Health Center
7630 W. Mill Road

• Wednesdays: 3 – 6 p.m.
• Fridays: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Southside Health Center
1639 S. 23rd Street

• Mondays: 3 – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays: 1 – 4 p.m.