Immunization

National Immunization Awareness Month

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). The goal of NIAM is to increase awareness about immunizations across the lifespan, from infants to the elderly. August is an ideal time to make sure everyone is up-to-date on vaccines before heading back to school and to plan ahead to receive flu vaccine.

World Breastfeeding Week falls during NIAM, from August 1-7. Breastfeeding is "baby's first immunization"- mothers pass some immunity to their babies through breastmilk.

 

Celebrate both campaigns with the resources below!

Back-to-School

• View the recommended immunization schedule.
• Learn more about school entry requirements.

 

Cocooning

• The CDC recommends "cocooning," vaccinating adults who are around the baby in order to protect the infant. (Exit Site)
• This Pertussis Vaccination Outreach Letter supports recommendations on Tdap use in adolescents and adults to protect vulnerable infants.

 

Global Immunizations

• International immunization is becoming an increasing area of focus for the AAP, in partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the UN Foundation Shot@Life Campaign.
• Visit our global immunizations page for more information.
• Visit Shot@Life, where you can save 31 lives in August with their Blogust Relay for Good.

 

Resources for WBW

Visit the World Breastfeeding Week Web site. (Exit site)

 

Poster

This poster can be displayed in waiting rooms or exam rooms. It encourage mothers to breastfeed, while also highlighting the importance of immunizing every child.

 

• Breastfeeding: Baby's First Immunization (PDF 62KB)

 

Last Updated: 8/1/2012