National Immunization Awareness Month highlights importance of routine childhood vaccinesShare This StoryemailPrintLinkedinRedditBOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) — August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a time dedicated to encouraging families to stay informed about recommended vaccinations and speak with their health care providers about keeping children up to date. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, following the recommended childhood immunization schedule helps protect babies, children and teens from serious diseases by providing immunity before they are most likely to be exposed. Doctors say routine well-child visits allow pediatricians to monitor a child’s growth and development while ensuring vaccinations are administered at the recommended ages. Vaccines given during childhood help protect against illnesses such as whooping cough, polio, meningitis, measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases. National Immunization Awareness Month is observed each August to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination for people of all ages and to encourage conversations between families and trusted health care providers.