Each August, CDC, NACCHO, and other partners recognize National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This recognition is meant to serve as a reminder to all that immunizations are a vital part of a healthy life for all ages.
Routine vaccinations during childhood and adolescence can prevent many diseases that were once common. Many people missed routine vaccines during the pandemic and now need to get caught up with the recommended immunization schedule. COVID-19 vaccines are now available to all people, 6 months of age and older, though data show that rates in infants and children are low. Some adults are unaware that there are also recommended vaccines for their age groups including vaccines to prevent influenza, shingles, and pneumococcal disease. It is important to use this month of awareness to promote vaccination for these groups and more to ensure people and families are able to live their healthiest lives.
CDC has developed a number of materials to help promote NIAM, including:
- Resources to encourage routine childhood vaccinations
- Toolkits for reaching healthcare professionals and parents
- Social media graphics
- Sample newsletters
- COVID vaccination resources
- Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool
- And many other resources that can be found on CDC’s website
NACCHO joins with you to encourage everyone to get caught up with routine vaccinations! On social media, use #ivax2protect to join the conversation and share content and resources promoting routine vaccination across the lifespan.
Immunization is the most frequent clinical service provided by local health departments. They often serve as critical safety nets for this essential public health service within their communities. In observance of NIAM, NACCHO would like to thank and applaud the many LHDs and their staff for their achievements in battling the COVID-19 pandemic, and preparation for the upcoming back-to-school and influenza seasons.
