The West Virginia Immunization Program is pleased to announce the Take Your Best Shot: WV Adolescent Immunization Project begins in October.  The campaign seeks to unite the community under the shared vision of increasing adolescent immunization rates to improve the well being of 11-21 year old West Virginians. To accomplish this goal, four spheres of adolescent influence will be targeted: Family/Adolescents, Peers/School System, Health Care Providers, and Community/Policy & Practices. The pilot project will be implemented by local immunization cooperatives led by designated lead agencies throughout the state.

Seven West Virginia counties will be implementing the project in their communities.  These counties will be identified during a press conference at the State Capitol set for October 8 at 10 a.m. featuring First Lady Gayle Manchin.

Take Your Best Shot is important to adolescents across the state for a number of reasons. 

1) Immunizations are an effective way to combat vaccine preventable diseases 

2) Immunizations improve health

3) Vaccines save money by preventing a disease from occurring in the first place.

Vaccine-preventable diseases have a costly impact, resulting in doctor’s visits, hospitalizations, and premature deaths. A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated adolescent vaccination coverage is currently below Healthy People 2010 goals. By working together through public/private partnerships, West Virginia can lead the nation in ensuring our adolescents are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases.

If you would like more information about the "Take Your Best Shot" adolescent campaign, contact the West Virginia Immunization Network at (304) 397-4071.