You can read Part 1 of Nora’s Series on immunization here.
Schools are important centers of activity for vaccination. In addition to informing parents about requirements and verifying immunization status, school nurses and other members of the school staff can educate, inform, and advocate for immunization. They can help to spread the word with co-workers, as well as families.
Advocating for immunization is more than just sharing information. It is about understanding your audience and what motivates them. There are a number of reasons that people choose not to get immunized. These include:
- Beliefs about the safety and efficacy of vaccines
- Beliefs about the need for vaccines
- Lack of knowledge about vaccines that are available and/or recommended
- Lack of access to immunization.
There are great resources to help address knowledge and beliefs. . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers many of these here. Another place to find great resources is the Immunization Action Coalition. One of my favorites is the mandated Vaccine Information Statements in 41 different languages.
School-located vaccine clinics are one of the best ways to connect families to vaccines. Clinics can be scheduled at the beginning of the school year or later on to provide access to flu shots. School-located vaccine clinics can also offer access to vaccines for adults who work in schools and family members of students. Schools and health departments can work together so that cost of vaccination is not a barrier. Programs that support affordable vaccines include CDC’s Vaccines for Children program, as well as partnership with health insurance companies, hospitals, and other provider groups.
Since there are many reasons why people don’t get vaccinated, advocacy should not be a one-time effort. This month is a perfect time to come up with your school’s plan for the year. After all, flu season is just around the corner. Consider how to enlist diverse partners in your effort, , such as Education Support Professionals who often have deep connections in the communities where they work.
Immunization coalitions bring together health departments, local groups, providers, and vaccine company representatives. These voluntary, community-based groups can provide information on disease trends, vaccine availability, and referral to other resources.
For more information, download our free publication, Advocacy for Vaccines.
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