Immunization

Immunization is one of the most cost-effective means of public health promotion and disease prevention. Vaccines prevent disease, disability, and death in children and adults. Sustaining high vaccine coverage levels in children and adolescents, increasing coverage rates in adults, effectively communicating the safety of vaccines, and incorporating new vaccines into the routinely recommended immunization schedule requires vigilance and adequate resources.

State laws mandating vaccines are one strategy to control vaccine-preventable diseases. Currently, all states and territories have school vaccination requirements, but both the requirements and the types of exemptions permitted vary by jurisdiction. State and territorial health agencies also have policies on vaccination requirements for personnel and patients in healthcare settings and correctional facilities.

A key to immunization is ensuring that vaccines are accessible for those who need them. Public health agencies accomplish this by recruiting and training a network of vaccine providers who improve vaccination coverage by providing educational materials, offering trainings, and visiting clinical sites.

Latest Immunization Resources

Healthcare professional administering a vaccine to a person’s upper arm, with the text ‘Health Policy Update’ displayed at the top.
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State Policies Impact Access to New Immunization Products

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A doctor puts a bandage on a patient's arm after giving a vaccine
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ASTHO Helping Agencies and Providers Advance Vaccine Equity

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A diverse group of people in casual attire, symbolizing unity and teamwork by stacking their hands together in an outdoor setting.
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Championing Change: A Toolkit for Addressing Vaccine Equity Through Community Mobilization

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State Health Officials Alarmed by U.S. Measles Outbreaks, Stress the Importance of Adhering to Established Public Health Practices and Vaccinating the Unvaccinated

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Diverse groups of young people studying on laptops around several tables, on person in a wheelchair
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Public Health Data Modernization

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Midsection of elderly person laying in a hospital bed with oximeter on their finger
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From the Chief Medical Officer: Preventing Respiratory Disease Spread with Less Authority, More Influence

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Healthcare Capacity Discussion Guide

2023 Fall and Winter Respiratory Illness Season

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Small scales of justice in a court room. ASTHO Health Policy Update banner in upper right
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Oyez! Oyez! Oyez! Public Health in the Courts

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