Children and families recently gathered for two engaging book reading events featuring Ava Antibody Explains Your Body and Vaccines, a colorful and educational children’s book that helps young readers understand how vaccines protect us from harmful viruses. The first reading took place on May 9, 2025, at the Denton Child Development Center, followed by a public event at the Caroline County Public Library in Denton on May 10.
Presented in a fun, age-appropriate format, the book answers questions like: “Have you ever had the flu?” or “What are chickenpox, measles, or mumps?” Ava Antibody breaks down the science of how vaccines help our immune systems fight off viruses and keep us safe.
Author Andrea Cudd Alemanni led both readings, delighting young listeners with her passion for science and storytelling. A North Carolina native with a chemistry degree from Appalachian State University, Andrea brings a unique blend of scientific knowledge and kid-friendly explanations to her work as a writer, patient advocate, and founder of Patient Navigation Team, LLC.
Every child who attended received a free copy of the book. Books were also offered to all licensed daycare providers within the county. Additional copies are available for checkout at all three Caroline County Public Library branches and will also be distributed at future immunization clinics and outreach events.
These events highlight the importance of staying up to date with routine childhood and back-to-school vaccinations, which are essential for keeping children, schools, and communities safe. Vaccines are a vital tool in protecting children’s health by building immunity before they are exposed to potentially serious or life-threatening diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and whooping cough. When children are vaccinated on schedule, it not only helps prevent outbreaks but also protects those who are too young or medically unable to receive vaccines. Staying current with recommended immunizations gives every child the healthiest possible start and helps ensure a safer learning environment for all.
Families who need help accessing vaccines may qualify for the [link:] Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, which provides free vaccines to eligible children under 19 years of age. For more information or to make an appointment, call the Caroline County Health Department at (410) 479-8000 or visit the Community Health Clinic at 403 S. 7th Street, Denton, MD, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Appointments are required.