Make an Effective Vaccine Recommendation during National Immunization Awareness Month

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This annual observance highlights the efforts of family physicians to protect patients of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases through on-time vaccination.

During NIAM, Kansas Academy of Family Physicians encourages you to ensure your patients are up to date on recommended vaccines. Research has consistently shown that physicians are the most trusted source of vaccine information for parents and patients.

Use NIAM as an opportunity to access CDC educational resources like the Growing Up with Vaccines, What Should Parents Know and Medscape CME activities to help you have successful conversations with parents about vaccines.

The Public Health Foundation and CDC have developed a digital communication toolkit with messages and graphics tailored to your role as a family doctor and emphasizing the importance of vaccination for your patients. Show your practice’s support of vaccination throughout the month by using this content on your website and on social media. During NIAM and beyond, you can engage with CDC and other healthcare professionals on social media by using #ivax2protect in your posts.