Every year, thousands of children become ill from diseases which could have been prevented by childhood immunizations.

National Infant Immunization Week is an annual observance to promote the benefits of immunizations in order to improve and protect the health of children two years of age and younger. NIIW highlights the dangers of vaccine-preventable diseases to infants and young children and the importance of childhood immunizations in helping to keep children safe and healthy. This year National Infant Immunization Week will be observed April 16-23. To encourage immunization of infants and young children, the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department will be waiving the administration fee for vaccines for all children up to three years of age who are eligible for the Texas Vaccine for Children program.

In observance of National Infant Immunization Week, the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department will also be hosting the annual Kids’ Health Fair on April 16, 2016 from 10 am until 1 pm at the Depot at 600 East Depot Street.

The Kids’ Health Fair will feature games, prizes, face-painting, bounce houses and a cake walk. Hot dogs and popcorn will be available. All games, activities and refreshments are free.

Information will be available for parents and caregivers about immunizations and vaccine preventable diseases, as well as information about the WIC program, emergency preparedness, safety and healthy living. Family Services Center, Pregnancy Care Center and the MOPS program will be on hand to provide information about their programs and resources. Free give-away items will also be available for adults.

The Brownwood/Brown County Health Department encourages area parents to bring their children to join in the fun at the Kids Health Fair on Saturday, April 16 at the Depot. Questions about National Infant Immunization Week, the Kids’ Fair or vaccine availability and pricing may be directed to the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department at 325-646-0554. Questions about immunizations and vaccine preventable diseases may also be found on the Centers for Disease Control website at www.cdc.gov.