immunization

Immunization Awareness Month: Staying Up to Date at Every Age

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August is National Immunization Awareness Month, an opportunity to check in on one of the most important tools available for preventing infectious disease: vaccination.

Immunizations are not just a childhood health measure. Vaccines need to change throughout life based on age, health history, occupation, travel, pregnancy, and other factors. Staying current with recommended vaccines can help protect you from serious illness while also reducing the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases within families, workplaces, schools and the broader community.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) provides immunization information and resources for Connecticut residents of all ages.

Infants and Young Children: Building Protection Early

The first years of life are an important time for immunization because young children can be particularly vulnerable to complications from infectious diseases.

Childhood vaccines provide protection against diseases including measles, mumps, rubella, polio, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis A and B, chickenpox, and others.

Parents and caregivers should work with their child's healthcare provider to make sure vaccines are administered at the recommended ages. CT DPH provides vaccine information for parents and caregivers, including links to current childhood and adolescent immunization schedules.

Connecticut also operates the Connecticut Vaccine Program (CVP), which supplies vaccines to participating healthcare providers for children under age 19.

School-Age Children and Teens: Keeping Protection on Schedule

As children enter school and move into adolescence, additional vaccines and booster doses become important.

Depending on age and vaccination history, these can include vaccines protecting against:

  • Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap)
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Meningococcal disease
  • Seasonal influenza
  • Other diseases based on individual circumstances

The HPV vaccine is particularly important during adolescence because it can prevent infections that can cause several types of cancer later in life.

Families should review immunization records during annual physicals and before the start of a new school year. Connecticut families can also use the state's CT WiZ Public Portal to access immunization records for themselves or their minor children.

Young Adults: Don't Let Vaccines Fall Off the Checklist

Graduating from high school or moving away from home can mean taking greater responsibility for your own healthcare—including vaccinations.

College students, especially those living in dormitories or other shared housing, should make sure they meet applicable vaccination requirements and discuss recommended vaccines with a healthcare provider. Young adults should also determine whether they have completed the recommended vaccine series, including HPV vaccination.

This is also a good time to start maintaining your own vaccination record. You may need it for college, employment, healthcare work, or international travel.

Adults: Vaccination Is Preventive Care

Vaccines remain an important part of preventive healthcare throughout adulthood. As CT DPH notes on its Adult Immunizations page, protection from some childhood vaccines can decrease over time, and adults can become vulnerable to different diseases as they age.

Depending on your age, health history, and other risk factors, your healthcare provider may recommend vaccines for diseases such as influenza, tetanus and pertussis, hepatitis A or B, shingles, pneumococcal disease, and others.

Rather than assuming you're up to date, make vaccination history part of your routine conversations with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Older Adults: Protection Becomes Especially Important

Our immune systems change as we age, and some infections are more likely to cause serious complications in older adults.

Vaccines recommended based on age and individual risk can provide protection against illnesses such as shingles, pneumococcal disease, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Because recommendations can depend on your age, previous vaccinations, and medical conditions, talk with a healthcare provider about which vaccines are appropriate for you. CT DPH maintains vaccine information by population and vaccine type to help residents learn more.

Pregnancy and Other Health Considerations

Vaccination recommendations can also change during pregnancy or because of certain medical conditions, medications, occupations, or travel plans.

Some vaccines are specifically recommended during pregnancy to help protect both the pregnant person and the baby, while others should not be given during pregnancy. People with certain chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems may also have different vaccination needs.

For these situations, consult your healthcare provider rather than relying solely on age-based recommendations.

Not Sure What You've Already Received?

It's common for adults to lose track of vaccination records over the years.

If you received vaccinations in Connecticut, the CT WiZ Public Portal can help you access your immunization record or your minor child's record. Keep in mind that older vaccinations or vaccines administered outside Connecticut may not appear in the system, so records from previous healthcare providers can also be helpful.

Make Immunizations Part of Your Preventive Health Routine

National Immunization Awareness Month is a good reminder to take a few simple steps:

  1. Check your vaccination record.
  2. Review the vaccines recommended for your age and circumstances.
  3. Ask your healthcare provider about missing vaccines or booster doses.
  4. Keep your vaccination records in a safe, accessible place.
  5. Encourage family members to review their records, too.

Vaccination recommendations can change as new evidence becomes available. For current guidance from the Connecticut Department of Public Health, visit the Immunization Program.

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The Back-to-School Vaccine Checklist: Preschool Through Grade 12

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Mother Saying Goodbye To Children As They Leave For School

As families prepare for a new school year, immunization records should be part of the back-to-school checklist. Connecticut requires students enrolled in preschool through Grade 12 to have certain vaccinations based on their age and grade level. These requirements help protect individual students while reducing the spread of vaccine-preventable illnesses in schools and throughout the community.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) states that Connecticut’s childhood immunization schedule and school requirements remain in effect and continue to follow the state’s established standard of care.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to review their child’s immunization record before the school year begins and contact their healthcare provider if any required doses are missing or overdue.

Why Vaccination Matters

Schools bring hundreds of children and adults into close contact every day, creating opportunities for infectious diseases to spread. Routine vaccination helps prevent outbreaks and can reduce illnesses and school absences among students and staff.

Vaccines are recommended throughout childhood to protect against potentially serious diseases. Connecticut families can also access childhood vaccines through providers participating in the Connecticut Vaccine Program (CVP). CT DPH notes that healthcare providers in Connecticut who vaccinate children under age 19 participate in the program.

Connecticut School Immunization Requirements

The following is a simplified reference based on the Connecticut Department of Public Health's Immunization Requirements for Enrolled Students in Connecticut Schools, revised January 22, 2026. Families should use this as a general guide and consult their child's healthcare provider and school for individual requirements.

Preschool

Vaccine Requirement
Hepatitis B 3 doses; last dose must be on or after 24 weeks of age
DTaP 4 doses by 18 months for programs beginning at 18 months
Polio 3 doses by 18 months for programs beginning at 18 months
MMR 1 dose on or after the first birthday
Varicella (chickenpox) 1 dose on or after the first birthday
Hepatitis A 2 doses separated by 6 calendar months; first dose on or after the first birthday
Hib At least 1 dose on or after the first birthday*
Pneumococcal At least 1 dose on or after the first birthday*
Influenza 1 dose annually between August 1 and December 31; children receiving flu vaccine for the first time may require 2 doses at least 28 days apart*

*Hib, pneumococcal, and the preschool influenza requirement are not required for students age 5 and older.

Kindergarten

Vaccine Requirement
Hepatitis B 3 doses; last dose on or after 24 weeks of age
DTaP 4 doses; last dose on or after the fourth birthday
Polio 3 doses; last dose on or after the fourth birthday
MMR 2 doses separated by at least 28 days; first dose on or after the first birthday
Varicella 2 doses; first dose on or after the first birthday, or verification of disease
Hepatitis A 2 doses separated by 6 calendar months; first dose on or after the first birthday
Hib At least 1 dose on or after the first birthday*
Pneumococcal At least 1 dose on or after the first birthday*

*Not required for students age 5 and older. Verification of previous varicella disease must be confirmed in writing by an MD, PA or APRN.

Grades 1–6

Vaccine Requirement
Hepatitis B 3 doses; last dose on or after 24 weeks of age
DTaP/Td 4 doses; last dose on or after the fourth birthday. Students beginning the series at age 7 or older need 3 doses
Polio 3 doses; last dose on or after the fourth birthday
MMR 2 doses separated by at least 28 days; first dose on or after the first birthday
Varicella 2 doses; first dose on or after the first birthday, or verification of disease
Hepatitis A 2 doses separated by 6 calendar months; first dose on or after the first birthday

Grades 7–12

Vaccine Requirement
Hepatitis B 3 doses; last dose on or after 24 weeks of age
Tdap/Td 1 dose for students who completed the primary DTaP series. Students beginning the series at age 7 or older need 3 tetanus-diphtheria-containing doses, including one Tdap
Polio 3 doses; last dose on or after the fourth birthday
MMR 2 doses separated by at least 28 days; first dose on or after the first birthday
Varicella 2 doses; first dose on or after the first birthday, or verification of disease
Hepatitis A 2 doses separated by 6 calendar months; applies to students born January 1, 2007 or later
Meningococcal 1 dose of conjugate vaccine

Required Vaccines vs. Recommended Vaccines

School requirements establish the vaccinations students need for enrollment, but they should not necessarily be treated as a complete vaccination schedule.

Families should talk with their child's healthcare provider about all vaccines recommended for their child's age, even when a vaccine is not specifically required for school attendance. CT DPH provides additional vaccine information and age-based resources for parents and caregivers.

For example, the vaccination schedule recommended by medical organizations may include additional vaccines or booster doses based on a child's age, health history and other risk factors.

Check Immunization Records Before the First Day

Don't wait until the week before school begins to discover that a vaccine or documentation is missing. Some vaccine series require multiple doses given at specific intervals, which means catching up can take time.

Parents and caregivers can:

  • Review their child's vaccination record and compare it with the current Connecticut school requirements.
  • Contact the child's pediatrician or healthcare provider to determine whether vaccinations are due.
  • Check with the child's school about required health forms and vaccination documentation.
  • Access immunization records through CT WiZ, Connecticut's Immunization Information System.
  • Start catch-up vaccinations early if a child is behind on vaccinations. Connecticut provides specific catch-up guidance for students enrolled in preschool through Grade 12.

Connecticut law requires certain vaccinations for children attending school or day care, and CT DPH maintains the state's current requirements, exemption information and catch-up guidance online.

Make Vaccines Part of Your Back-to-School Checklist

A new backpack and school supplies may get most of the attention, but checking your child's immunization record is an important part of preparing for the school year.

Families with questions about which vaccines their child needs should contact their pediatrician or healthcare provider. For questions specifically about Connecticut's school immunization requirements, contact the Connecticut Department of Public Health Immunization Program at 860-509-7929.

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The Importance of Getting Vaccinated Against Whooping Cough

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Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that has seen an alarming resurgence recently. Cases of this disease in the United States have risen dramatically; tragically, two infants in Louisiana have died of the disease this year.

This is a stark reminder that even diseases widely regarded as under control can rebound, posing a significant public health threat in our communities — especially to the youngest and most vulnerable. Whooping cough is a vaccine-preventable disease, so receiving an immunization is the best way to prevent further spread.

 

What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The illness typically starts with mild, cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough. After one to two weeks, the most serious symptom emerges: severe, rapid coughing fits that produce a high-pitched “whoop” sound as the person struggles to breathe. 

This disease is particularly dangerous to infants and young children. Since their airways are smaller, coughing fits can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, apnea (dangerous pauses in breathing), seizures, and even brain damage or death.

Whooping caught can persist for several weeks or even months, earning it the nickname “the 100-day cough.” Even when the intense coughing subsides, individuals can remain contagious for several weeks and potentially spread the disease to others.

 

The Importance of Vaccination

To protect against whooping cough, it is recommended that children receive either a DTaP or Tdap immunization. These are combination vaccines that also provide protection against diphtheria and tetanus. By exposing the body to harmless components of the pertussis bacteria, the vaccine helps the body develop antibodies to recognize and fight the bacteria if someone is exposed to it.

DTaP vaccines are given to children under the age of seven. They are administered as a series of four doses, starting at two months old and lasting until 15-18 months old. A booster dose is given between the age of four and six. 

 

Booster Shots

The effectiveness of childhood DTaP vaccines wanes over time, though they still guard against serious illness caused by whooping cough. Tdap is a vaccine given to older children and adults who have not previously been vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control recommend that adults receive a Tdap dose if they have not been vaccinated against whooping cough, and that they get a booster every 10 years.

Booster shots are also recommended for adults who will be in close contact with infants, who are more vulnerable to whooping cough. Pregnant women are strongly advised to receive a dose of Tdap during their pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks gestation, to pass protective antibodies on to their newborns.

Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you and your family are up-to-date on your whooping cough vaccinations.

Learn more about the Uncas Health District’s immunization work here.

National Immunization Awareness Month: Protecting Ourselves, Our Families, and Our Community

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mother with vaccinated child

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), a month highlighting the significance of vaccination for individuals of all ages. Routine immunization is a cornerstone of public health, safeguarding communities from the consequences of preventable diseases.

The Power of Vaccination

Vaccines have been instrumental in eradicating or significantly reducing the spread of numerous infectious diseases. By building immunity within a population, vaccination creates a protective shield that benefits everyone, especially the most vulnerable members of our society.

The Importance of Staying Up-to-Date on Vaccinations

Staying current with recommended vaccinations is crucial for maintaining individual and community health. It’s essential to follow the immunization schedule recommended by healthcare providers.

CDC’s Let’s RISE Initiative

To bolster vaccination rates and protect public health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched the “Let’s RISE” initiative. This comprehensive program focuses on providing actionable strategies, resources, and data to support healthcare providers, public health officials, and communities in ensuring that all Americans receive the recommended vaccinations.

Protecting Our Children

Vaccines are particularly vital for children, as they offer robust protection against serious childhood illnesses. Adhering to the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule is important for safeguarding children’s health and well-being. For parents seeking detailed information on recommended vaccine schedules for children, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/schedules/index.html

Healthier Communities

By staying current with vaccinations, we can create healthier communities for ourselves, our families, our friends, and our neighbors. Let’s work together to raise awareness about the importance of immunization, build trust in vaccines, and ensure equitable access to these vital interventions.

Access Your Vaccination Record with CT WiZ

National Infant Immunization Week: Protecting Our Littlest Ones

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infant receiving vaccine

Every year in April, we celebrate National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW), a dedicated time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting infants and young children from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). This year, NIIW runs from April 22nd to 29th, 2024.

Why Vaccines Matter

Vaccines are one of the most successful and cost-effective public health tools we have. They work by exposing the body to a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacteria, which helps the body develop immunity without getting a full-blown illness. This protects not only the vaccinated child but also those around them, creating a herd immunity effect that benefits the entire community.

Focus on Staying on Track with Vaccinations

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of our lives, including well-child visits and childhood vaccinations. This NIIW, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) want to emphasize the importance of getting your child back on track with their recommended vaccinations.

Getting Back on Schedule

If your child’s vaccinations have been delayed, don’t worry! It’s not too late to catch up. Talk to your doctor about creating a plan to get your child current on their immunizations. Remember, on-time vaccination is critical for protecting against potentially life-threatening diseases like whooping cough (pertussis) and measles.

Access Your Child’s Vaccination Records

Visit the State of Connecticut Immunization Program here.

The CT WiZ Public Portal allows individuals who were vaccinated in Connecticut to access their immunization records, while parents and guardians can also access their minor child’s records.  Check your and/or your child’s immunization record here.

Together, we can ensure that all children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. This NIIW, let’s recommit to staying on track with childhood immunizations.