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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 11, 2020

Why should you get vaccinated?

Oklahoma City Indian Clinic promotes National Immunizations Month and the importance of vaccines

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit clinic providing health and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma, promotes the benefits of staying current with your yearly vaccinations.

Vaccines aren’t just for children, they are recommended at all stages of life,  even if you’re healthy. The annual flu vaccine becomes available every fall and is recommended for ages 6 months and older to remain as protected as possible throughout the flu season. Also, adults are recommended to have one dose of Tdap followed by a Td (tetanus and diphtheria) booster every 10 years. For those over 50, the shingles vaccine is recommended, and adults over 65 and those with certain conditions under 65, should receive a pneumococcal vaccine.

“Keeping you and your family vaccinated is important for protection, but it also helps those most vulnerable to illnesses, such as infants, young children, elderly, and those with chronic conditions,” said Stephanie Harris, OKCIC Director of Public Health. “Vaccines help to  prevent diseases from reaching the vulnerable and limit potential community outbreaks.”

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is a reminder of the importance of vaccinations, and staying up-to-date should not be ignored. Vaccines are safe and effective at preventing a variety of diseases, like measles, chicken pox and whooping cough.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), before a vaccine is approved for use in the U.S., it goes through years of careful testing to make sure it is safe and effective.

“Millions safely receive vaccines each year,” Harris said. “The disease-prevention benefits of vaccines outweigh the possible side effects for almost everyone.”

Talk to your health care provider about which vaccines are right for you and your family at your next visit.

About Oklahoma City Indian Clinic
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic was established in 1974 to provide excellent health care and  wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma. The clinic staff cares for more than 20,000 patients from over 200 federally recognized tribes every year. American Indians can receive a range of services, including medical, dental, pediatrics, prenatal, pharmacy, optometry, physical fitness, nutrition, family programs and behavioral health services. For more information, please call (405) 948-4900 or visit www.okcic.com.