SPRINGFIELD – Massachusetts has some of the highest childhood immunization rates in the country. In fact, the Massachusetts Department of Health and Human Services Childcare/Preschool Immunization Results by County report for 2015-2016, shows that over 95 percent of young children in Hampden and Hampshire counties have received the necessary vaccinations. However, ongoing awareness and understanding of the importance of vaccinations – for both children and adults – is essential for a healthy community. AFC Urgent Care is using August, National Immunization Awareness Month, to help spread this important message.

“We all need shots (also called immunizations and vaccinations) to help protect us from serious diseases,” said Dr. Vincent Meoli, regional medical director of AFC Urgent Care, the largest urgent care provider in the Commonwealth. “This is true for people of all ages. For adults, vaccinations can prevent serious diseases like the flu, shingles and pneumonia. It’s important to know what shots you need and when to get them.”

Many adults incorrectly assume that if they had all their immunizations as babies and children, they don’t need any as adults. Dr. Meoli said that is one reason why immunization awareness is so important.

“Adults should have tetanus boosters every 10 years. Travelers to foreign countries often require a range of vaccinations. Adults over age 60 should be immunized for shingles, and over age 65, for pneumonia.” He continued, “Almost everyone aged 6 months and older needs to get a flu vaccine every year. Other shots work best when they are given at certain ages. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website offers immunization schedules for children, teenagers, adults, pregnant women and other specific groups of people, like health care providers and travelers. Or talk to your health provider to make sure that everyone in your family gets the shots they need.”

AFC Urgent Care offers immunizations for children and adults, including travelers, as well as convenient hours, with nights and weekends, seven days a week.