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Health department launches new war on low
immunization rates
Saturday clinics form front lines in fight
to combat infections
By Joy Victory Caller-Times
August 2, 2002
At least 1,060 people caught
vaccine-preventable illnesses between 1998 and 2001, according to
the city-county health department.
While most were mild cases of chicken pox, health educators say
not enough children are getting immunized in Nueces County.
Also, Nueces County ranks lowest among the 10 most populous
counties for vaccinations, according to the 2000 Texas Immunization
Survey.
Only 64.5 percent of Nueces County parents reported that their
children were up-to-date on vaccinations.
The highest county was Travis, where Austin is located, at 73.9
percent.
Month-long campaign
To combat more cases of infections such as chicken pox,
hepatitis or whooping cough, the department kicked off a month-long
campaign Thursday to address low immunization rates. Special
Saturday clinics will be held throughout the month.
Fees are determined by parental income.
Chicken pox ranks first for vaccine-preventable diseases that
people are still catching in Nueces County. Between 1998 and 2001,
870 people came down with the itchy illness, which can leave scars.
The vaccine is new to the market and some shortages made it hard
for parents, said Mike Hacker, director of nursing for the health
department.
In short supply
Right now, the only vaccine in short supply is Prevnar, which
can prevent several infections such as meningitis and ear
infections. The shortage should be over by the end of the year, said
immunization supervisor Janie Adame.
Part of the problem may lie with parents of toddlers, Hacker
said.
Often, they forget to keep up on the shots that their children
need between 2 and 3 years old, he said.
"We want every parent to ask (a doctor), 'Does my child need to
be immunized?' " Hacker said.
Medical reporter Joy Victory can be contacted at 886-3764
or_victoryj@caller.com
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