Kentucky’s Physicians, Nurses and Hospitals Team Up to Share the Importance of Vaccinations
Voices for Vaccination Campaign Encourages Kentuckians to Protect Themselves and Their Families by Following Recommended Immunization Schedule
Louisville, Ky. (December 4, 2023)— As winter approaches and the holiday season is underway, the Kentucky Medical Association (KMA), the Kentucky Foundation for Medical Care (KFMC) the Kentucky Hospital Association (KHA) and the Kentucky Nurses Association (KNA) today announced the launch of Voices for Vaccination, a new public health campaign to encourage Kentuckians of all ages to stay up to date on their COVID-19, flu and other recommended immunizations.
The Lawrence County Health Department takes walk-ins for flu shots each Monday from 8 am until 6pm. Other vaccines, including COVID-19 and RSV, are available by appointment Monday through Friday. Call 606-638-4389 to make an appointment. We strongly encourage everyone to stay up to date on all their immunizations. Vaccines save lives!
“This week is National Influenza Vaccination Week, which means there is no better time to arm Kentuckians with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health,” said Michael Kuduk, M.D., President of the Kentucky Medical Association. “We vaccinate against serious diseases. Mild cases will make you feel bad, moderate or severe cases may send you to the hospital. Vaccines are an important way to keep you healthy.”
“Vaccines are safe, effective and important for all Kentuckians, especially children, pregnant women and our seniors. It is the single most-effective way to protect yourself and your families this holiday season,” said Shawn Jones, M.D., President of the Kentucky Foundation for Medical Care (KFMC).
With COVID-19 still circulating and flu and RSV cases on the rise, it’s important for everyone six months and older to receive their scheduled vaccinations to build immunity, stay healthy and reduce stress on the health care system. That’s why Voices for Vaccination will use a variety of communication channels, including print, radio, streaming services and social media to provide information about the benefits of vaccination and address vaccine hesitancy.
“Vaccinations are a critical tool to fight off preventable viruses and significantly lower the risk of serious illness that can lead to hospitalization,” said Nancy Galvagni, President and CEO of the Kentucky Hospital Association. “We’re excited to partner with our fellow care organizations so the voices of Kentucky’s physicians, hospitals and nurses can echo the same message encouraging all Kentuckians to get vaccinated and keep their community and loved ones safe.”
“Nurses are on the front lines providing care to patients every day, whether that’s helping to administer routine vaccinations or treating a patient for a vaccine-preventable illness,” said Delanor Manson, CEO of the Kentucky Nurses Association. “We are committed to working with our healthcare partners to debunk common misinformation around vaccines and ensure everyone knows vaccines are the best way to protect their health and those that they love.”
To learn more about the Voices for Vaccination campaign and find vaccination information, please visithttps://www.voicesforvaccinationky.org.
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About the Kentucky Medical Association
Established in 1851, the Kentucky Medical Association is a professional organization for physicians throughout the Commonwealth. The KMA works on behalf of physicians and the patients they serve to ensure the delivery of quality, affordable healthcare. Members of the KMA share a mission of commitment to the profession and service to the citizens of this Commonwealth that extends across rural and urban areas. From solo practitioners to academicians to large, multi-specialty groups, KMA is the ONLY state association representing every specialty and type of medical practice in Kentucky.
About Kentucky Hospital Association
The Kentucky Hospital Association (KHA), established in 1929, represents hospitals, related health care organizations, and integrated health care systems dedicated to sustaining and improving the health status of the citizens of Kentucky.
About Kentucky Nurses Association
Established in 1906, the Kentucky Nurses Association (KNA) is the only full-service professional organization for the state’s entire nurse population. KNA promotes the essential role of the registered nurse in health care delivery and advocates for quality patient care in all settings.
