The Peru Gazette

Plattsburgh, August 3, 2026. The Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) is reminding residents to stay up to date on recommended vaccines this Immunization Awareness Month. Vaccines help to significantly reduce the risk of infection, disease, hospitalization and death. They also help to decrease the spread of vaccine preventable diseases.

“Vaccines work by triggering our immune system to recognize and fight off specific pathogens,” explained Nichole Louis, BSN, RN, Director of Health Care Services at the CCHD. “Our immune system then remembers how to fight off that illness if we come in contact with it again.”

“Vaccination is one of the simplest and most effective ways we can protect ourselves, our families, and our community,” said Jeff Sisson, Director of Public Health. “As we prepare for the new school year and the fall and winter respiratory virus season, I encourage all Clinton County residents to talk with their health care provider to make sure they are up to date on recommended vaccines and help keep our community healthy.”

Vaccines protect against more than 20 serious infections and related diseases including: measles, mumps and rubella (MMR); polio; diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis (DTaP/Tdap); hepatitis A and B; human papillomavirus (HPV); influenza; COVID-19; pneumococcal; meningococcal; varicella (or chickenpox); shingles; Haemphilus influenzae type b (Hib); and rotavirus. There are also several other globally used vaccines. Recommendations vary depending on age, heath status, and lifestyle. The best way to be sure you are up to date on vaccination is to have a discussion with your health care provider.

“Vaccines are safe and effective,” added Ms. Louis. “Side effects are uncommon, most are mild and short-term, they are far less serious than the disease the vaccine is meant to prevent.”

Additionally, New York State has immunization requirements for school entrance/attendance. Though the requirements differ by age and grade, vaccinations typically required include: DTaP/Tdap, polio, MMR, hepatitis B, varicella, meningococcal, Hib, and pneumococcal. The easiest way to determine if your child is up to date on all their vaccines is to contact their pediatrician or school nurse. If your child is missing a vaccine, or due for a booster, contact your pediatrician. “Do this now to get them scheduled as the appointments fill up fast. Do not wait until the last week of summer,” urged Ms. Louis. “If you are having trouble locating your records or have a provider that does not carry vaccines, contact CCHD at 518-565-4848.”