Adolescent Immunization Action Week (AIAW25) has once again provided a powerful platform to emphasize the importance of keeping adolescents up to date on their vaccinations. Last week’s observances aimed to educate, engage, and empower adolescents, parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers to take action. Now that the week has concluded, let’s reflect on the key themes, highlights from each day, and how we can carry these lessons forward.
Key Themes and Lessons from AIAW25
This year’s AIAW centered around the concept of staying on TASK with vaccination:
- Trust good resources: Relying on credible, science-based information and healthcare providers.
- Ask questions: Encouraging open conversations about vaccines.
- Schedule an appointment: Taking action by making vaccination appointments.
- Know where to get vaccinated: Ensuring accessibility to vaccination sites.
Some of the topics discussed during AIAW include countering misinformation, engaging adolescents and parents in conversations about vaccines, and improving accessibility to vaccines for all communities.
Daily Reflections on AIAW25 Events
Monday, April 7 – Kickoff: Stay on TASK
AIAW25 launched with a social media takeover featuring educational posts and infographics. Many of our partners and supporters joined us to reinforce the value of vaccines on various social channels.
Key takeaway: When many voices share clear and trustworthy information, it strengthens public understanding and reinforces the shared belief that vaccines are essential for health.
Tuesday, April 8 – YA Panel Discussion
Dr. Todd Wolynn joined young adults (AYA’s) in discussing adolescent vaccination and how to counter misinformation. This session provided a space for youth to voice their concerns and learn from experts.
Key takeaway: Credible and easy-to-understand resources have a powerful impact on vaccine confidence and education.
Wednesday, April 9 – FACTSinnated Episode with Cindy Leifer, PhD
A new FACTSinnated episode was released, featuring Dr. Cindy Leifer, an Immunologist at Cornell University, who addressed misinformation and shared expert insights on adolescent vaccination.
Key takeaway: Accessibility and awareness improve vaccination rates. Ask your parent or doctor about vaccines and know where to get vaccinated.
Thursday, April 10 – How to spread science-based information and build trust around vaccination: A webinar moderated by Dr. Chelsea Clinton, Vice Chair of the Clinton Foundation
The “Building Trust Together” panel, moderated by Dr. Chelsea Clinton, brought together vaccine experts like Dr. Joel Bervell, Dr. Celine Gounder, and Alison Buttenheim and discussed best strategies for combating misinformation.
Key takeaway: Misinformation spreads quickly, but knowledge and advocacy can counter it. Ask your parent or doctor about vaccines and trust good sources.
Friday, April 11 – Know Where to Get Vaccinated
This day focused on ensuring that parents and adolescents know where they can access vaccines. Resources were shared on accessible vaccination sites, and winners of the “Vaccines for the Win” giveaway were announced.
Key takeaway: Awareness must translate into action for real change.
Moving Forward: How to Use What We Learned
Now that AIAW25 has wrapped up, it’s important to keep the momentum going. Here’s how we can continue making an impact:
- Continue Conversations: Keep discussing the benefits of vaccination with family and friends.
- Stay Informed: Follow credible sources like the Unity Consortium for updates and resources.
- Advocate for Immunization: Encourage peers, parents, and communities to take action and get vaccinated.
- Support Future AIAW Efforts: Help spread awareness and participate in upcoming campaigns.
AIAW25 was a tremendous success, reinforcing the importance of adolescent vaccination and equipping families with the tools to take action. While the official events may be over, our work isn’t. By applying what we’ve learned, sharing reliable information, and encouraging others to stay on TASK, we can continue to protect the health of adolescents and young adults in our communities.
Have you scheduled your adolescent’s vaccinations yet? If not, now is the perfect time to take action and ensure they are up to date!
