Healthy Living

National Immunization Awareness Month: Vaccines Help Protect People at Every Age

19 August 2026

Vaccines are an important part of preventive care. They help the immune system recognize and respond to certain viruses and bacteria, which can reduce the risk of serious illness and complications.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month – a time to check whether you and your family are up to date on recommended vaccines. While vaccines are often associated with childhood, they can help protect people throughout every stage of life.

Vaccine recommendations may depend on your age, health history, pregnancy status, occupation, travel plans and other factors. Recommendations can also change as new information becomes available. Talk with your health care provider about which vaccines may be right for you.

Immunizations for children and teens

Vaccines help protect children from serious illnesses such as measles, polio, whooping cough and chickenpox. Routine well-child visits give parents and caregivers an opportunity to review their child’s vaccination record and ask questions.

Common childhood vaccines may include:

• Diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough

• Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B

• Measles, mumps and rubella

• Polio 

• Chickenpox

• Haemophilus influenzae type b

• Pneumococcal disease

Additional vaccines may be recommended as children get older, including vaccines that help protect against meningococcal disease and human papillomavirus.

Children who have missed a vaccine may be able to follow a catch-up schedule. A health care provider can help families determine what is needed based on a child’s age and vaccination history. Review the current CDC child and adolescent immunization schedule.

Immunizations during pregnancy

Vaccination during pregnancy can help protect both the pregnant person and the baby. Depending on individual circumstances and the time of year, a health care provider may recommend vaccines such as:

• Influenza

• Tdap, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough

• Respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV

Some vaccines should not be given during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your health care provider before receiving a vaccine.

Immunizations for adults

Immunity from some childhood vaccines can decrease over time, and adults may face new health risks as they age. Recommended vaccines can vary based on age, health conditions and previous vaccination history.

Vaccines commonly recommended for adults may include:

• Influenza

• Tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough

• Shingles

• Pneumococcal disease

• RSV

• Hepatitis A or Hepatitis B

Adults may also need vaccines for travel, work or certain health conditions. The CDC adult immunization schedule provides current guidance by age.

Immunizations for older adults 

The immune system can become less effective with age, increasing the risk of serious complications from some illnesses. Depending on age, health history and other risk factors, older adults may be advised to receive vaccines that protect against shingles, pneumococcal disease, influenza, RSV and other illnesses.

A health care provider can review your records, discuss your personal risk factors, and help you make an informed decision.

Take time to check your vaccination record 

National Immunization Awareness Month is a good reminder to review your vaccination history and make an appointment if you have questions. Staying current on recommended vaccines can help protect you, your family and people in your community who are more vulnerable to serious illness.

Talk with your health care provider or pharmacist to learn which vaccines may be appropriate for you. PHP members can also review their plan materials or contact Customer Service using the number on the back of their member ID card with questions about vaccine benefits.

Visit the CDC’s vaccine schedules for individuals and families for additional information.