Shots can prevent infectious diseases like measles, diphtheria, and rubella. But people in the U.S. still die from these and other vaccine-preventable diseases. It’s important to know which shots you need and when to get them.

Everyone over age 6 months needs a seasonal flu shot every year. Other shots work best when they are given at certain ages. Here are some general guidelines:

• Children need a series of shots from birth to age 6.

• Pre-teens need recommended shots at age 11 or 12.

• All adults need a tetanus booster shot every 10 years.

We all need immunizations (also called vaccines or shots) to help protect us from serious diseases. To help keep our local community safe, I hope that you will participate in National Immunization Awareness Month.