Blog

National Immunization Awareness Month: Advancing Prevention, Protection, and Public Trust

  • August 1, 2026

Created by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and observed annually in August, National Immunization Awareness Month places the spotlight on the importance of vaccines for people of all ages and emphasizes the role of immunization in preventing serious illnesses, supporting herd immunity, and protecting individuals and communities from preventable diseases.

At Whittier Street Health Center, all standard vaccines are offered, including:

  • Influenza
  • Covid-19
  • RSV
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Chicken pox
  • Measles
  • Mumps
  • Rubella

For patients who do not have records of previous vaccinations, blood samples can be taken to determine which vaccines they have protection against and which they may still require.

Over the past several years, social media has been a major source of misinformation about vaccines, spreading false claims that can undermine trust in proven public health measures. National Immunization Awareness Month provides an opportunity to counter these misleading assertions with accurate, evidence-based information and to remind individuals and families that vaccines remain one of the safest and most effective ways to prevent serious illness.

Whittier’s staff are trained to deliver culturally responsive, accurate vaccine guidance and education to our diverse patient community, allowing for open conversation and strengthened trust in the importance of immunizations.

As we observe National Immunization Awareness Month, Whittier Street Health Center reaffirms its commitment to keeping our community healthy, informed, and connected.

A note about Whittier and COVID-19

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak in our area, we ask all clients and patients to call ahead before coming to any of our sites. We are working to take care of most clients/patients via phone/video encounter so we can meet your ongoing healthcare needs. This is for your safety and so we can provide the highest quality of care to you while following CDC guidance for COVID-19. Please call 617-427-1000 for any questions or concerns.

Whittier will provide COVID-19 testing from 10 am to 4 pm on Monday to Friday. Following CDC guidance, we recommend testing if you have a fever AND one of the following three symptoms: cough OR shortness of breath OR sore throat. Please bring your picture identification and your insurance card (if you have insurance).