National Immunization Awareness Month

History & origins

National Immunization Awareness Month is listed in this site's 2026 calendar for August 1. Informal "national days" are often promoted by communities, trade groups, and brands; origins and official proclamations vary by country and year. Protect yourself and your community during National Immunization Awareness Month! August highlights the importance of vaccines for people of all ages. Because many such observances are cultural or promotional rather than statutory, treat dates as a planning guide and confirm local events separately.

Why it matters

Observing National Immunization Awareness Month gives people a shared anchor to explore awareness & health themes—vaccines, immunization, August, prevention, health—and to coordinate learning, gatherings, or giving around that focus. Protect yourself and your community during National Immunization Awareness Month! August highlights the importance of vaccines for people of all ages. Vaccines have saved millions of lives and continue to protect against serious diseases.

How to celebrate

Check your vaccination records and get caught up. Schedule back-to-school vaccines for children. Get your annual flu shot. Learn about vaccine safety and effectiveness. Share accurate vaccine information. Thank healthcare workers who administer vaccines.

Facts

• Vaccines prevent 2-3 million deaths worldwide annually
• The US childhood vaccination program prevents 42,000 deaths per year
• Vaccines have eliminated or nearly eliminated many diseases in the US
• Herd immunity protects those who cannot be vaccinated
• Vaccine safety is continuously monitored by multiple systems