August is National Immunization Awareness month. We want to remind everyone that people of all ages should have timely vaccinations to prevent diseases, ranging from polio to the flu, to pneumonia, shingles, etc. Childhood immunizations are also important. Without them, children are at risk, and non-immunized kids put other peoples' kids at risk.

Did you know that the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children? This program is offered by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which means that program participants must abide by the CDC’s vaccine storage and handling guidelines.

The Boothbay Region Health Center is seeking donations for a vaccine refrigerator and freezer, in order to participate in the Vaccines for Children Program. The total amount needed to purchase the refrigerator and freezer is $2,500. Thanks to the generous donations and purchases of pies for our pie sale at the Rotary Auction, we were able to obtain $700 of the needed $2,500. We are now seeking donations to cover the additional $1,800. Stop by the Boothbay Region Health Center in the Meadow Mall to learn more.