Baton Rouge --- Parish health units across the state of Louisiana will be joining in the observance of National Infant Immunization Week, an annual event to promote the benefits of immunizations and to focus on the importance of having children up-to-date on their immunizations by age two.  This year’s event will be held from Saturday, April 22 through Saturday, April 29, 2006.

“Louisiana currently ranks 46th in the nation for infant immunization rates,” said LDH Secretary Dr. Fred Cerise.  “By focusing our efforts during this week, we hope to see a significant improvement in our ranking for 2006.”

Parish health units will be open their normal business hours during National Infant Immunization Week.  Shots will be provided at no cost for those who are eligible for the Vaccines for Children program. This includes people receiving Medicaid, those without insurance and Native Americans.

There will be a $10 administrative fee for all others who receive shots at parish health units, though no one will be denied immunizations due to inability to pay.  Appointments are not necessary.  Parents should be sure to bring their children’s vaccination records.

For more information, contact your nearest parish health unit or go to www.dhh.louisiana.gov.  For information on partner clinics offering immunizations, visit http://www.shotsfortots.com/.


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