WHEREAS, vaccine-preventable illnesses including measles, tetanus, polio and COVID-19 pose a health risk to people of all ages, so it is important that all North Carolinians remain up-to-date with their routine vaccinations for their individual and community health; and
WHEREAS, National Immunization Awareness Month is a federally recognized observance that highlights the importance of fighting against infectious diseases using vaccines, which the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention declared as one of the Top Ten Health Accomplishments of the 20th century; and
WHEREAS, vaccines are continually proven to be safe and effective for the vast majority of people; and
WHEREAS, the continued engagement of health care providers, community-based organizations, local health institutions, long-term care facilities, and educational institutions significantly impacts vaccine uptake among people of all ages; and
WHEREAS, vaccines are a highly cost-effective way to prevent disease and severe disease outcomes, protecting individuals’ quality of life and reducing community spread of infectious diseases;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim August, 2023, as “IMMUNIZATION AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.