To counter such misconceptions, Melani stressed the importance of providing credible information to parents and caregivers. This highly contagious condition causes liver disease and liver cancer. Each year, nearly four million people in the United States develop chicken pox. Of those, more than 9,000 are hospitalized and nearly 100 die. Now, there are almost no deaths from these infections.
Immunizations continue to protect children against preventable diseases into adulthood.
By encouraging immunizations during childhood, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is helping to foster a healthier population of adults in the future. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield hopes to learn more about why pre-teens may not be receiving necessary immunizations with a survey card, which is included in the birthday card mailing. In addition to the birthday card mailing, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield sent letters explaining the awareness campaign to physicians. Free literature about immunization schedules and well childcare also are available to the public. Highmark was created in 1996 through the consolidation of Blue Cross of Western Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania Blue Shield.