August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) — a time to highlight the importance of vaccination for children of all ages. As the new school year approaches, it’s the perfect opportunity for parents to ensure their children are up-to-date on routine immunizations that protect them and others from preventable diseases.
Vaccines are one tool we have to protect our children’s health, and they’re a key requirement for school readiness. Whether your child is entering daycare, preschool, kindergarten, or heading off to college, here are some helpful tips and reminders to keep you on track:
✅ 1. Schedule Back-to-School Wellness Visits
Summer flies by — don’t wait until the last minute to book your child’s check-up. Pediatricians’ offices tend to fill up quickly in August, so schedule your appointment early to ensure availability. These visits are a great time to:
- Review your child’s vaccine schedule
- Discuss any concerns with your pediatrician
- Get physical forms completed if required by schools or sports teams
🏫 2. Update School and Daycare Health Records
Most schools and childcare centers require updated immunization records before your child can start. After your doctor’s visit, be sure to:
- Request a copy of updated immunization records
- Submit them to your child’s school or daycare
- Keep a copy for your personal records (digital or printed)
🔎 3. Review Immunization Requirements by Age
Each state has specific requirements, and they often differ by age and school level. Some common vaccines by age group include:
- Infants & Toddlers: DTaP, polio, hepatitis B, rotavirus, Hib, pneumococcal, MMR, varicella
- Preschool/Kindergarten: Booster doses of MMR, DTaP, and polio
- Middle School: Tdap booster, meningococcal, HPV
- High School & College: Meningitis, flu, COVID-19 (if eligible), and other boosters as needed
📞 4. Call Your Doctor’s Office to Clarify Any Gaps
If you’re unsure whether your child is missing any shots, reach out to your pediatrician. Many offices can look up your child’s records or access statewide immunization registries. Don’t assume all vaccines are automatically given — sometimes families delay or space them out.
📚 5. Do Your Research and Ask Questions
Some parents may feel uncertain or overwhelmed when it comes to vaccines. That’s okay! It’s important to be informed. Use trusted resources such as:
- CDC’s Parent-Friendly Vaccine Schedule
- American Academy of Pediatrics
- Your child’s pediatrician
Avoid misinformation from unverified sources. Your doctor is your best partner in making decisions based on science and your child’s individual health needs.
💉 6. Consider Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines
While not always required, annual flu shots and updated COVID-19 vaccinations are strongly recommended for school-aged children to reduce the spread of illness — especially in group settings like classrooms and sports.
📅 7. Set Reminders for Future Doses
Some vaccines require multiple doses spaced over months or years. Use your calendar or phone reminders to track when your child needs their next dose, especially for multi-dose vaccines like HPV or hepatitis A and B.
🛡️ 8. Protect the Community, Too
Immunizing your child not only protects them — it helps protect others who are too young or medically unable to receive vaccines. This concept of community immunity (or herd immunity)is a powerful way we all contribute to public health.
In Closing…
Vaccines are safe, effective, and essential for a healthy childhood. National Immunization Awareness Month is a great reminder to take stock of your child’s vaccine status and make a plan. A quick appointment today could prevent serious illness tomorrow.
Let’s give our children the healthiest possible start this school year — one vaccine at a time.
Have questions about immunizations or need help finding a pediatrician?Contact your local health department or visit Vaccines.gov to find providers near you.
Media Contact
Tildsley McManus, PR & Marketing Manager
PR@therapysmarts.net
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