The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky with support from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicaid has launched “High Five for Health.” The effort addresses concerns voiced by parents in focus groups and includes animated videos, social media graphics, message points, and materials for use in doctors’ offices and youth organizations. The materials answer frequently asked questions and provide five steps for parents to follow when getting their child vaccinated.
“We must come together to conquer the coronavirus. Anthem is committed to getting the word out to Kentuckians that the vaccines are effective and safe. They are our best defense against the virus and our best hope of getting back to normal life.”Ben Chandler, president and CEO, Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky
From the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky:
The “High Five for Health” action plan is as follows:
- Talk with your pediatrician or family doctor
Meet with your pediatrician or family doctor to share your concerns and schedule your child’s vaccine. Your doctor can provide a personalized recommendation that best meets your child’s and family’s health care needs.
- Talk with your child
Discuss with your children what are the vaccines, their importance and what might happen after they get it. They may have arm pain, a headache, feel tired, or have achy muscles. These should go away in a day or two. Help them understand the getting the shot protects them and other from getting sick, including any young siblings or grandparents. Other benefits may include participation in after-school programs and organized sports or not having to quarantine if they’ve been exposed to the virus. Talking through can relieve anxiety and fear about getting a shot in the first place.
- Schedule your child’s vaccine appointment
Pick a location and time that is convenient and fits in your child’s schedule. No matter where your child gets the vaccine – doctor’s office, school, church, pharmacy, etc. – all locations report their vaccine record to the state registry. That means even if you don’t get it at your doctor’s office, they can still access the information for your child’s medical record. Also consider upcoming sports and activities and try to find some downtime in case your child has any minor side effects. Winter break from school is a perfect opportunity!
- Prepare your vaccine-ready kit
Hydration is key. Doctors recommend hydrating before and after the vaccine. Also, have on-hand a non-aspirin child’s pain reliever in case your child has pain at the injection site, sore muscles or a headache.
- Get your child vaccinated
When you’re at the doctor’s office or immunization clinic, be calm. Remember kids pick up on how the adults around them are feeling. And consider a reward or special activity for “being brave.”
Health care professionals, community-driven entities and the public are strongly urged to download the free toolkit to improve outreach, spark critical conversations and equip parents with the facts about COVID-19 vaccines.
All campaign materials are available for free download at High5forHealth.org.
