By: Richard L. Smith
As August marks National Immunization Awareness Month, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is reminding residents to keep their vaccinations current, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV shots, as students head back to school and cooler weather approaches.
Governor Phil Murphy has officially recognized August 2025 as Immunization Awareness Month, noting that vaccines remain one of the most effective public health tools, preventing disease, disability, and saving millions of lives.
“Staying up to date on immunizations helps protect children, older adults, and entire communities,” Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown said. “It’s a simple but powerful way to prevent serious illness.”
Childhood vaccines protect against 18 serious diseases, from measles and polio to chickenpox and meningitis.
The CDC reports that only 62.5% of New Jersey children under age 3 have completed the recommended vaccination series, compared to more than 72% nationwide.
The NJDOH encourages residents of all ages to speak with their health care providers about which vaccines are right for them.
Recommended shots for adults may include boosters for whooping cough, pneumonia, shingles, and seasonal flu, especially for those with chronic conditions.
Vaccines are available through doctor’s offices, pharmacies, health departments, and community clinics. Most are covered by insurance, and low- or no-cost programs are available for eligible children and uninsured adults.
More information can be found at nj.gov/health/vaccines or vaccines.gov.