Live Well Newsletter | August 2023
National Immunization Awareness Month
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This campaign serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccinations to prevent serious diseases. Immunizations are often associated with children, but adults may also be at risk for diseases. Without vaccinations, you or your loved ones are at a greater risk of catching a vaccine-preventable disease.
The Importance of Staying Up-to-Date on Vaccines
The following are four reasons for adults to get vaccinated:
Vaccines are among the best ways to protect yourself and others from preventable diseases.
Protection from vaccines can fade over time, so you may need additional doses, also known as boosters, to maintain protection.
Vaccines can prevent severe symptoms. While you may still get sick, vaccines can help lessen the effects of an illness.
Vaccines may be required for school, work or travel.
Contact your health professional to ensure you are current on your vaccinations and boosters.
School Health and Safety Tips
As children head back to school, it’s important to review ways for them to stay safe and healthy during the school year. Use the following back-to-school health and safety tips:
Purchase art supplies that are child safe and nontoxic.
Make sure backpacks have wide straps and padding in the back and shoulders.
Verify that your children know their phone number and address and how to contact a guardian in an emergency.
Teach children not to talk to strangers or accept rides from people they don’t know.
Review school safety procedures and rules with your child.
Educate children on proper hygiene practices such as handwashing techniques.
How to Prevent Vehicle Thefts
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently reported that vehicle thefts in the United States are on the rise, with more than 1 million motor vehicles stolen in 2022—a 25% increase from previous years. With that in mind, car owners must be vigilant in their security practices to prevent theft.
Vehicle Security Best Practices
While theft prevention measures cannot guarantee protection in all instances, taking precautions to help ward off would-be thieves can still make a difference. The following tips can help discourage vehicle theft:
Close all windows before leaving your vehicle.
Keep car doors locked.
Park in well-lit areas.
Never leave your car unattended while it’s running.
Never leave your keys in your vehicle.
Hide valuables in your glove box or trunk.
Consider purchasing additional anti-theft devices for your vehicle, such as the following:
Electronic immobilizers
Wheel clamps
Pedal lock
Steering wheel lock
Audible alarm
GPS tracker
Reviewing your auto insurance coverage may also be beneficial to determine if theft coverage is part of your policy or can be added. Contact your agent to discuss your auto insurance coverage to ensure you’re protected against theft or vandalism.
Avoid Leaving Commonly Stolen Items in Your Vehicle
Criminals aren’t just out to steal vehicles; they may also be attracted to possessions in your car. The following are the most common items stolen from inside vehicles:
Purses
Laptops
Tablets
Sound systems
GPS devices
Cell phones
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical purposes. © 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.