Preserving health with immunizations Published Aug. 14, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Mercedes Muro 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- Staying current on immunization requirements is one of the most important things a person can do to prevent an illness. Even though there may be a slight pain, immunization shots are a small price to pay for a lifetime of preventative health. At Little Rock Air Force Base, the immunization clinic stresses the importance of immunizations for prevention and elimination of disease. The month of August is National Immunizations month. However, vaccinations are available at any time of the year. Approximately 1,300 people received vaccinations in July 2014 at Little Rock AFB, according to Staff Sgt. Ryan Duckett, 19th Medical Operations Squadron noncommissioned officer-in-charge of immunizations. "I recommend getting vaccinated," said Duckett. "It helps create antibodies to fight illnesses." Children are required to receive vaccinations because their bodies don't have the immune system to fight diseases. Eighty-eight percent of parents reported that they are getting their children vaccinated on schedule or are intending to use the schedule, according to the National Public Health Information Coalition. Even though many people are vaccinated in their early stages of life, adults are still encouraged to receive immunizations. "It's important to remember that getting vaccinated also protects the people around you," said Duckett. "People get vaccinated to protect themselves but what they're also doing is stopping an illness from being contagious." To get more information about immunizations at Little Rock AFB, call (501) 987-2927.