Governor Proclaims Adult Immunization Promotion Month 2022

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic reminds us of the power that vaccines have to prevent illness and save lives, and that while immunizations have long been the cornerstone of pediatric care, we recognize those benefits continue throughout our lives and that adult immunizations are essential to maintain health; and
 

WHEREAS, disruptions brought on by COVID-19 resulted in many adults missing routine preventative health care, including immunizations, putting them at risk for illness, hospitalizations, and premature loss of life; fewer than half of adults in North Carolina (49.8 percent) received the flu vaccine in 2021; and

WHEREAS, despite highly effective vaccines, each year 880,000 adults in the United States have chronic hepatitis B, 320,000 people become ill with pneumococcal pneumonia, and an estimated one million people develop shingles; and

WHEREAS, immunizations save lives and protect individuals, communities, and the capacity of our entire healthcare system; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina strives to ensure equitable access to health care for all residents and acknowledges that vaccines are one of the most effective and affordable interventions proven to save lives, yet vaccine coverage is historically lower among Black and Hispanic/Latinx adults; and

WHEREAS, this statewide, month-long observance will coincide with the onset of flu season and will serve to inform, educate, and expand access to immunization services for adults in North Carolina;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October, 2022, as “ADULT IMMUNIZATION PROMOTION MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.