March of Dimes Commends Flu Vaccine Legislation
Availability of Shots Good News for Families and Caregivers

Albany, NY, July 30, 2009 – The March of Dimes applauds the passage of S.3911-A/A.876-A by the New York State Legislature and Governor Paterson’s signing it into law as the policy will require hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) to make vaccinations against the influenza virus available to all caregivers of newborns being treated in NICUs. 

“Parents and caregivers of fragile NICU babies have enough concerns and face many difficult decisions.  With heightened awareness of influenza, they shouldn’t also have to worry about where to obtain this important vaccine,” said Tony Vecchiotti, March of Dimes New York State Volunteer Public Affairs Chair.  “By providing convenient access to the vaccine, New York and hospitals across the State have taken a positive step toward preventing babies and their caregivers from unnecessary exposure to the influenza virus."

The flu can be a major complication for young, healthy children.  In fact, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has determined that children aged less than five years old are at an increased risk for influenza-related hospitalization. Nationally, up to 100 children under the age of 6 months die from influenza or influenza-associated illness every year.  In New York State alone, 5 to 10 newborns die annually due to influenza or related illnesses. 

Babies born premature are even more vulnerable to infection due to their compromised immune systems and are more likely to contract influenza from a parent or other adult.  For clinical reasons, it is not advisable to vaccinate the newborns; however, this creates an even greater need for parents and caregivers of premature babies to be immunized.    

The March of Dimes has been a leading proponent of the bill and worked closely with the New York State Legislature to ensure its passage.
 
 The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies®, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.

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