The Oswego County Health Department reminds residents of the importance of vaccinating infants and young children by recognizing National Infant Immunization Week April 22 to 29. The annual recognition raises awareness of the importance of immunizing children two years and younger from diseases that are preventable by vaccines.

“It can be intimidating for parents to try to keep track of their baby’s vaccine schedule,” said Oswego County Supervising Public Health Nurse Jennifer Purtell. “Our public health nursing staff are always happy to help parents work with their child’s health care provider and assist getting their child on track with their vaccines.”

Getting children vaccinated on time is critical in providing protection against potentially life-threatening diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The New York State Department of Health also requires that all children going into public, private and religious schools, pre-K and daycare receive all required vaccinations unless they have a valid medical exemption.

For a printable schedule of recommended childhood vaccines and information on the diseases they protect against, visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/child-adolescent.html. Copies of the schedule are also available at the Oswego County Health Department.

Parents that have questions about vaccines or getting their child vaccinated should talk with their child’s primary health care provider.

The Oswego County Health Department provides a general vaccination clinic every Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. by appointment. The clinic is located at the Nick Sterio Public Health Clinic at 70 Bunner St., Oswego. To make an appointment, call 315-349-3547 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.