August 19, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov
It’s Not Just for Kids: The Chesapeake Health Department Encourages Everyone to Stay Up to Date on Immunizations
August is National Immunization Awareness Month
Chesapeake, Va.– Have you ever seen someone with measles or diphtheria? Neither have most doctors practicing in the United States today. Immunizations have made these and several other serious diseases rare. However, a decline in children receiving immunizations is putting communities at risk again. During National Immunization Awareness Month, the Chesapeake Health Department reminds people of all ages that staying up to date on immunizations is essential in protecting individuals and their entire community.
As families prepare for the new school year it’s important that parents make sure their children are current on all school requirements for immunization. In Virginia, vaccines are required for school-aged children entering kindergarten, seventh, and 12th grades. Immunization rates for local schools can be found on the Virginia Student Immunization Status Survey. We encourage you to talk to a healthcare provider about your child’s routine immunizations.
“During my half-century as a physician, I have seen firsthand the devastation of preventable infections, including meningococcal disease, polio, and measles. I have held the hand of mothers who tragically lost their children to these illnesses. Bottomline – Vaccines save lives. Public health saves lives.”
In addition to childhood immunization, the Chesapeake Health Department recommends adults stay up to date on vaccines as well. Many adults are unaware that immunity from some childhood vaccines can wear off over time. Adults should talk with their healthcare provider about what is recommended for them based on their age and health.
COVID-19 and Flu vaccines are recommended for all Virginians six months of age and older. The Respiratory Immunization Dashboard shows how many people living in Chesapeake have received the 2024-2025 COVID-19 and Flu vaccines:
| COVID-19 booster | Age 6 mos +
9.4% |
Age 5-17
3.3% |
Age 18+
11.6% |
Age 50+
21.1% |
| Influenza | Age 6 mos+
28.7% |
Age 5-17
24.3% |
Age 18+
29.8% |
Age 50+
45.1% |
The Chesapeake Health Department wants to make sure that no one falls behind on immunization based on lack of access, information, or money. The VDH Call Center, (877) VAX-IN-VA (877) 829-4682 (English, Spanish, 100+ languages), can help:
For more information on immunization or to schedule an appointment at the Chesapeake Health Department, please visit: www.vdh.virginia.gov/chesapeake/health-care-services.
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