BACKGROUND:
The Marion County Health Department (MCHD) continues its efforts to improve countywide immunization rates.

OBJECTIVE:
To implement a sustainable initiative for increasing public awareness and for educating parents/adults on the necessity of age appropriate immunizations.

METHOD:
Indiana holds a well-earned reputation as a basketball-loving state. Indianapolis, hometown for "Hoosier Hysteria," is the perfect location for recruiting a professional basketball team as spokesperson(s) to promote immunizations. The MCHD established a partnership with a WNBA team, the Indiana Fever. The Fever hosted a press conference for our flu campaign: “Protect yourself. Protect your loved ones.” at Conseco Fieldhouse October 2003. Following an address by Dr. Orenstien, Director of the National Immunization Program, Fever players stepped forward to receive flu shots for the media. In December, 2003, the Fever co-sponsored a flu clinic for the underserved in Marion County. With the filming of PSA’s and hosting of several events, 2004 promises a strong offense for improving “shot” rates!

RESULT:
Press conference at Conseco attracted local newspaper, television and radio stations. The Fever’s sponsorship provided a forum to provide flu shots to 600 of our county’s most needy. The team’s ability to leverage the media has enhanced efforts to improve community awareness and overall immunize coverage levels.

CONCLUSION:
Professional athletic teams have the ability to educate communities in which they live and advocate for age appropriate vaccinations.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1.Explain how to establish a partnership with a WNBA team.
2.Describe in what ways they can be instrumental in improving immunization rates.
3.Identify potential projects that can be implemented jointly.