National Immunization Awareness Week
National Immunization Awareness Week↗ (NIAW) is an annual event held from 26 April to 2 May 2026 to highlight and recognize the importance of immunization.
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect individuals, families, and communities from serious and preventable diseases. Routine childhood immunizations help keep children healthy, protect those who are more vulnerable, and reduce the spread of illness in the community. Backed by rigorous testing and ongoing safety monitoring, they remain one of our most effective tools to prevent serious illness and save lives.
This is why this year’s theme for National Immunization Awareness Week is “The time is now! Get immunized” reinforcing confidence in the significant benefits of vaccines; the strong evidence supporting their safety and effectiveness; the importance of addressing dis- and misinformation; and the need to stay informed and up to date with recommended immunizations.
Throughout National Immunization Awareness Week, we invite everyone to take part in celebrating, whether it be by promoting the importance of vaccination or getting you/your children caught up on missed vaccinations.
Wondering what you can do?
Check to make sure all your immunizations are up to date. Routine vaccines↗ are given throughout childhood and adolescence and even adults need vaccines too!
Visit your healthcare provider to get caught up on any vaccines you need. Children and youth facing barriers accessing vaccination through a health care provider can also visit one of Ottawa Public Health’s clinics↗ located across the City.
Report your child’s vaccinations to Ottawa Public Health↗ every time they receive a vaccine. Reporting immunizations is required for all children and youth attending school, as well as those in licensed childcare, and is the responsibility of parents and/or guardians. Keeping immunization records up to date helps protect your child and the community in the event of a vaccine preventable disease outbreak.
Check out the National Immunization Awareness Week event website↗ for more ideas on how you can take part!
For more information, please visit our OPH website: Immunization – Ottawa Public Health↗.