August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a great time to learn how vaccines help protect Oregon families. Vaccines help keep everyone safe from serious diseases. They’ve been used for decades and are still one of the best tools we have to prevent illness and save lives.
How OHA supports families and providers
Oregon Health Authority (OHA)’s Immunizations Program works statewide to reduce preventable diseases through education, quality improvement, and access to vaccines.
People can also check Oregon’s public dashboards to see vaccination rates and flu season trends for people in Oregon.
Why immunizations matter
Vaccines help protect everyone from diseases that can still spread today. They reduce hospital visits, prevent outbreaks, and keep schools and workplaces healthier.
Pregnant people benefit from vaccines that help protect newborns during the first months of life.
Oregon Health Authority and the West Coast Health Alliance stand by trusted vaccine guidance
On August 13, OHA, as part of the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA), shared an update.
WCHA made it clear that the recent federal Executive Order about childhood vaccines does not change the WCHA’s position on evidence‑based vaccine guidance.
The WCHA bases its recommendations for vaccinations on guidelines from trusted professional medical and health organizations representing millions of health care providers.
Earlier this year, WCHA endorsed the 2026 Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). This schedule uses the most up‑to‑date science to show how vaccines protect children and teens.
The WCHA endorsed the 2026 Maternal Immunization Schedule from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), which recommends routine vaccines during pregnancy to protect both pregnant people and their babies.
The WHCA recommends immunizations information should come from trusted health care organizations so families can make informed choices. They also point out that vaccine coverage, especially through government programs, gives families access and options.
Where people in Oregon can get vaccinated
People in Oregon have many options to get immunized:
- Your doctor’s office or medical clinic –If you need help finding a clinic, call 211info.
- Local pharmacies – Many offer vaccines for adults, teens, and children ages 7 and up.
- COVID‑19 and flu vaccines – Available through VaccineFinder or Vaccines.gov, or by calling 1‑800‑232‑0233.
Staying healthy together
National Immunization Awareness Month is a reminder that protecting our health is a community effort. By following trusted guidance, asking questions, and staying up to date on vaccines, Oregon families can help keep each other safe and healthy.
If you have questions, contact your health care provider or the OHA Immunization Program at 1-800-980-9431.