School books have been put away for a few months and children in Chatham County are looking forward to the lazy days of summer which could include going to summer camps. But before kids head out for summer fun, parents are encouraged to make sure that all immunizations are up to date.

“We want children to enjoy a happy, healthy summer and one way to ensure that is to get them immunized against potentially dangerous diseases,” said Coastal Health District Immunization Coordinator, Marianne Pappas. “Whether it's whooping cough or H1N1 flu, children need to be protected, especially when they're going to be in close contact with a lot of their peers.”

The Chatham County Health Department can help parents determine if their child's immunizations are current. The Health Department has vaccine available for children who need to be immunized.

“People don't usually think about immunizing their children this time of year but it's a good idea because not only will it help protect them during summer break but it also helps parents avoid the back-to-school rush to get children immunized in the fall,” said Pappas.

Daycare and schoolaged children are required by State law to get certain immunizations before entering school; however, vaccinating young people against additional diseases, such as the H1N1 flu, is encouraged by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Georgia Department of Community Health, and the Coastal Health District.