MONROE — The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and Green County Public Health announced April 26 that SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group has been named a “Big Shot” for their efforts to vaccinate children against diseases. The recognition is given to those health care providers who vaccinate 90% or more of their patients 2-years-old and under, based on immunization data collected through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR).  

“We are pleased to recognize SSM Health Monroe for their diligence in helping to keep our children healthy,” said RoAnn Warden, Green County Public Health Officer/Director. “Childhood vaccinations are critical to protect our children and everyone around them from diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, and pertussis among others.”  

“This recognition from the Department of Health Services and Green County Public Health is extremely gratifying,” said Erica Wand, Director of Pediatric Services at SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group. “We believe good health starts early with vaccines to protect children from a host of diseases. It’s a responsibility we take very seriously.”  

The Wisconsin Immunization Program webpage shows parents which vaccinations their child needs and at what age, and parents and guardians can look up their child’s vaccine record to make sure they are up to date. 

Big Shot is an annual award given to health care providers who show excellence in protecting children and teens against vaccine-preventable diseases through strong immunization practices and high immunization rates. 

The public announcement of the 2022 Big Shot Awardees coincides with National Infant Immunization week April 25 to May 1. NIIW is an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States.