LANSING — Dr. Basel Khatib of Dearborn, has been named this year’s Childhood Immunization Champion for Michigan by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for his efforts to promote childhood immunization. Khatib has made promoting immunizations a pivotal mission in his career.

“I’ve always considered giving immunizations to children a major mission of my career. I really believe that it should be a pivotal part of the work of any pediatrician,” said Khatib. “It can be hard at times, but it is absolutely rewarding. Success in this arena can only be achieved through team work. I give all credit to every member of my team. They work relentlessly every day to make sure that our patients get their vaccines on time.”

Each year, during National Infant Immunization Week (April 26-May 3) the CDC Foundation and CDC select health professionals and community leaders around the country to honor with the CDC Childhood Immunization Champion awards. These awards acknowledge individuals who engage in extra efforts to promote immunization to children in their communities.

“I have to thank all the wonderful families of our patients, and all of the great team members of the Wayne County Health Department,” said Khatib. “We take this opportunity to make a pledge not to be complacent, but to work harder every day, because after all, nothing is more rewarding than seeing a smile on the face of a healthy child.”

CDC Childhood Immunization Champions were selected from a pool of healthcare professionals, coalition members, community advocates, and other immunization leaders. One winner was selected in each of the 30 participating states and one from the District of Columbia.