Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
Every August, National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) highlights the important role vaccines play in protecting individual and public health. While immunizations have long been part of routine healthcare, the COVID-19 pandemic brought renewed attention to the role they can play in preventing illness and reducing disease spread.
Whether recommended for childhood, travel, or adult health, vaccines are designed to help the body prepare for potential infections. Here’s a closer look at how they work and what’s next for vaccine development.
How Do Vaccines Work?
Vaccines introduce a small, harmless part of a virus or bacteria—such as a protein, sugar, or inactivated form of the pathogen—into the body. This triggers the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells that can recognize and respond to the real germ if it’s encountered later.
Some vaccines, like those for tetanus or COVID-19, may require booster doses to maintain long-term protection.
Why Do We Need Vaccines?
Vaccines are one way to help prevent the spread of certain infectious diseases, including those that were once more common in the United States, such as polio and measles. Widespread vaccination can also help protect people who are unable to receive vaccines due to medical conditions or age by reducing the overall presence of a disease in the community.
Are There Vaccines for Kids?
Yes. Children in the U.S. are generally recommended to follow a vaccination schedule beginning at birth and continuing through adolescence. Common pediatric vaccines include:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
- Polio (IPV)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)
- PCV13 (Pneumococcal conjugate)
- Rotavirus
Parents or caregivers with questions about vaccine timing or missed doses should consult their child’s healthcare provider.
Are There Vaccines for Adults?
Vaccines can be recommended for adults based on age, health conditions, job, or travel plans. Common adult vaccines include:
- Influenza (flu shot) – yearly
- COVID-19 vaccines and boosters – based on current guidance
- Shingles (Shingrix) – typically recommended for adults aged 50+
- Pneumococcal vaccines – for older adults or people with chronic conditions
- Tdap or Td – every 10 years
- HPV (Gardasil 9) – through age 45, in some cases
- Hepatitis A and B – for adults at risk or who were not vaccinated as children
A healthcare provider can help determine which vaccines are appropriate for individual needs.
How Can I Get Vaccinated?
Vaccines are available at:
- Healthcare provider offices
- Local public health departments
- Pharmacies
- Community health centers
Many pharmacies offer vaccines without requiring an appointment. If cost is a concern, the RxLess® Assurance Plan can help identify discounts at participating pharmacies for certain vaccines and medications. Visit rxless.com for more information.
Why Do Some Vaccines Require Annual Doses?
Some viruses, like influenza, change regularly. As a result, the flu vaccine is updated annually to reflect the most common circulating strains.
Similarly, updated COVID-19 booster shots may be recommended to address emerging variants and maintain protection. Annual or periodic boosters may be part of ongoing vaccine schedules for some conditions.
What’s Next for Vaccines?
Vaccine research continues to evolve. Scientists are exploring new vaccine platforms and working to develop vaccines for additional diseases, including:
- HIV
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
- Certain types of cancer, such as cervical and melanoma
- Universal flu and coronavirus vaccines to provide broader protection
Ongoing advancements may expand prevention options and improve global public health strategies in the future.
Conclusion
National Immunization Awareness Month is a reminder to review your vaccine status and speak with a healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations for your age, lifestyle, or health conditions.
To compare prices or find discounts on certain vaccines, the RxLess® Assurance Plan offers a free way to check local pharmacy options. It’s one more tool to help make preventive care more accessible.
