The Hays County Commissioners Court proclaimed the month of August 2025 as National Immunization Awareness Month in Hays County and encouraged all residents to contact their healthcare provider or veterinarian to ensure their immunizations — and those of their family members and pets — are current and complete.
“National Immunization Awareness Month is observed every August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages and to promote the protection of public and animal health through immunization,” the proclamation stated. “Vaccines are a safe, cost-effective and proven tool for preventing the spread of contagious and potentially deadly diseases, saving billions of dollars in healthcare costs each year.”
Vaccines help protect every member of our community, especially our most vulnerable — including infants, children, older adults, individuals with chronic health conditions, and those who are immunocompromised.
“Timely vaccination helps prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, tetanus, influenza and COVID-19,” the proclamation stated. “Adherence to the recommended immunization schedule over the course of a lifetime has prevented countless cases of illness, hospitalizations, long-term disability and death.”
Vaccines are rigorously tested, licensed and continually monitored for safety and efficacy by national and international health authorities.
Veterinary immunizations have also contributed significantly to the health and safety of our community’s animals, preventing the spread of diseases such as rabies, distemper and parvovirus in pets like dogs and cats,” the proclamation stated. “Hays County recognizes the vital role of local healthcare provid-ers, schools, pharmacies, veterinarians and public health agencies in ensuring access to immunizations and promoting vaccine education.”
From October 1, 2024, through the present, the Hays County Local Health Department has administered over 1,226 vaccines to community members and staff, contributing to the health and resilience of the county.
