Comprehensive community immunization program for vulnerable populations

The purpose of this poster presentation is to share strategies used to provide comprehensive community immunization initiatives for the vulnerable populations of the 13,000 Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians residing in Western North Carolina. Our goal has been to maximize utilization of available resources to make the tribe less dependent on non-tribal government agencies. It is imperative that we immunize all ages against vaccine preventable diseases. We have developed immunization programs that incorporate Vaccines for Children, North Carolina Immunization Registry, pandemic flu trainings for firemen and pharmacists, vaccines at the workplace, Vote and Vax, and health fairs. From the CDC Vaccine for Children program, we receive vaccines for children ages 0 – 18 years that protect against 16 childhood diseases. With the North Carolina Immunization Registry (NCIR) we can exchange vital children's immunization data with the 100 North Carolina health departments. Since our population is somewhat transient, this enrollment is effective. At mobile flu shot clinics we immunize community essential services personnel including school employees, commercial drivers, childcare workers, and environmental engineers. During our Vote and Vax initiative on Electon Day, 2006, almost 500 adults presented for a flu shot after casting their ballot at two county voting precincts. To prepare for pandemic flu, we train firemen and pharmacists to administer flu shots. In addition, we design and provide culturally appropriate brochures promoting immunizations at worksites and health fairs. We shall continue to develop innovative ideas to improve our immunization performance.