Immunizations

Immunization coverage levels have long been used as a measurement of the health status of a population.
Syringes

Today's goal for immunization coverage for 19-36 month old children is that 90% will be up-to-date for 4:3:1:3:3:1:4. This means that a 2 year-old child will have had these vaccines: 4 DTaP, 3 Polio, 1 MMR, 3 Hib, 3 Hep B, 1 Varicella, and 4 Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV7).These are the required vaccines in Michigan; other vaccines which are recommended are Rotavirus, Hepatitis A, and Influenza.

Adolescent and adults also need ongoing immunizations to either continue their protection against the vaccine preventable diseases or to build protection against additional diseases.

The immunization program is vitally important in a Community Health Center or other health care provider's office. Proper handling and storage of vaccine, as well as correct use, requires a deep understanding of a host of details. Orientation for new staff is essential, as well as ongoing updates for seasoned staff.

Featured Story: Medical Assistants and Immunizations

It is true that the immunization schedules from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are becoming more and more complicated. However, it is also true that children, adolescents, and adults are now able to be protected from additional vaccine-preventable diseases. One of the challenges in a health care provider's office is orienting new staff to your immunization program. Check out the Resources section of this Immunization Page for 11 modules written specifically for orienting Medical Assistants to immunizations.

Immunization Resources

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Immunizations

Featured Story: Medical Assistants and Immunizations

Immunization Resources

Immunization Links

Find a Health Center

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