Vaccine-preventable diseases have been virtually eliminated from the United States, but children still need to be vaccinated.

Vaccinations are the most important advance in health care in the past century. By staying up-to-date on the recommended vaccines, individuals can protect themselves and their families from life-threatening infections. Dr. Kathleen Lake, assistant professor of pediatrics at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says small pox and polio are two diseases that have nearly disappeared.

SOUND BITE: "Many people don't remember what it looks like to see a child with measles. It's been so long since we've had cases that are common. Ah That makes some people not realize how important it because the diseases seem to be gone, but the reason that the disease is not seen is because of the vaccination. So it's very important for our children's heath and the adults' health, and future health -- to continue to vaccinate children."

The recommended vaccines begin soon after birth and continue throughout life. Because children are particularly vulnerable to infection, most vaccines are given during the first five to six years of life. Other immunizations are recommended during adolescent or adult years and, for certain vaccines, booster immunizations are recommended throughout life.

Dr. Lake explains the vaccinations that are recommended for children before they start school.

SOUND BITE: ". . . in Illinois, the requirement ah for children when they enter school at age 5 would include five DPT, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis vaccines and the detaps is what they use now. They need four polio vaccines. They need two measles, mumps and rubella vaccines. They need a total of three Hepatitis B vaccines . . . chicken pox also is required now."

Dr. Lake says the vaccines currently being given are safe and effective. Parents should talk to their child's primary care physician to learn what vaccinations are required.