“THRIVE”: Tennessee Health Resources in Vaccine Education
THRIVE was started due to the fact that there has been an increase in the number of babies, teens and adults that are not getting vaccinated in the state of Tennessee therefore putting everyone at an increased risk for diseases especially those that are living with an underlying illness. To help educate Blount County’s residents our program assistant Rachael Lawson B.A. (Hons) provides information about vaccinations for people of all ages and stages of life. Her intention is to inform using facts and scientific evidence; nevertheless, she does not attempt to persuade someone to have a vaccination if they do not want to. She can be seen in the community at events including Fall Festivals, UT Mammography Clinics, Second Harvest Food Banks, Remote Area Medical Clinics, and more! She distributes educational brochures, vaccination schedules for all ages, parental information about getting their child vaccinated, and informational materials for those with chronic conditions at these events.
A note from Rachael: “I am very committed and passionate about my job knowing that together we all can make our community of Blount County the best it can be. It’s essential to keep in mind that your health is genuinely your greatest wealth! Take care of your body and it will take care of you!”
Family and Consumer Sciences
The following links can be used to access trustworthy sources for child, adolescent, teen, and adult vaccination information:
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
for parents: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents
for healthcare providers: www.cdc.gov/vaccines
History of Vaccines
Immunization Action Coalition (IAC)
for the public: www.vaccineinformation.org
for healthcare providers: www.immunize.org
U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Vaccinate Your Family (formerly Every Child by Two)
Vaccine Education Center (VEC), Children’s Hospital
of Philadelphia
www.chop.edu/centers-programs/vaccine-education-center
Vaxopedia
Voices for Vaccines (VFV)
for parents, other adults, and healthcare providers: