Immunizations (also called shots or vaccines) help prevent dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases. Immunization isn’t just for kids – to stay protected against serious illnesses like the flu, measles, and pneumonia, adults need to get vaccinated, too.
National Immunization Awareness Month is a great time to promote vaccines and remind family, friends, and coworkers to stay up to date on their shots.
How can National Immunization Awareness Month make a difference?
We can all use this month to raise awareness about vaccines and share strategies to increase immunization rates in our community.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Talk to friends and family members about how vaccines aren’t just for kids. Shots can protect people of all ages from serious diseases.
- Encourage people in your community to get the flu vaccine every year.
- Invite a doctor or nurse to speak to parents about why it’s important for all kids to get vaccinated.
How can I help spread the word?
We’ve made it easier for you to make a difference! This toolkit is full of ideas to help you take action today. For example:
Get Involved
Take action to raise awareness about the importance of immunizations.
- Organize a free or low-cost immunization clinic at a local community or health center.
- Remind people to write down the names and dates of their recent shots. This helps keep track of which shots they’ve gotten and which they still need to get.
- Partner with a school nurse to host an educational event for parents about the importance of immunizations.
- Post flyers around your office to remind people to get their shots.
- Work with local summer camps to make sure children get important shots before attending camp.
For more information and materials, contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
