This week is National Infant Immunization Week and Marion County Public Health wants community members aware of a couple of federally funded programs that are offered to provide no cost vaccinations.

The first program is the Vaccines for Children Program, in which children birth through 18 years of age are eligible for no cost vaccines if they are enrolled in Medicaid, don’t have insurance, or are American Indian or Alaskan Native.

The other program, which is new this year, is the Vaccines for Adults program. Eligible adults include those 19 years of age and older who do not have health insurance or have health insurance that does not cover the cost of vaccines. Those with Medicare Part B or Part D are only eligible for specific vaccines.

Marion County Public Health nurse Judi Van Hulzen says those interested in these programs are encouraged to call for more information and to make an appointment. She also states that If immunization rates for Marion County residents increase, the risk of outbreak generally decreases. Keeping current on you and your families’ immunizations can help protect them and prevent the spread of serious diseases in our community.

Call Marion County Public Health at 641-828-2238 to look up your immunization records, make an appointment, and discuss your vaccination options.