ARLINGTON, Va. — As the nation continues to combat the COVID-19 virus and emerging variants, it remains more important than ever for Americans to stay current with vaccinations and other critical health and wellness needs.

This National Immunization Awareness Month, NACDS reminds the American public of the crucial importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19 and seasonal flu to help protect public health and prevent severe disease and related emergency care.

NACDS is also commemorating pharmacists and their pharmacy teams for their continued leadership throughout the nation’s vaccination campaign, for their efforts to foster vaccine confidence and for their heroic and ongoing work to help ensure that Americans get flu, COVID-19 and other routine vaccinations conveniently, equitably and efficiently.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recently recommended that immunocompromised individuals receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine after the initial two doses. NACDS member pharmacies continue to provide vital access to COVID-19 vaccinations — and are fully prepared to provide booster shots of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines in late September when authorized and recommended to do so.

Additionally, pharmacies share the Biden Administration’s priority focus on equitable vaccinations – and its comprehensive focus on health equity.

The 2021-2022 flu vaccination season will be another critically important one, and with local pharmacies and pharmacists located within five miles of 90 percent of Americans, these trusted and accessible healthcare professionals stand ready to meet patients where they are so that they may continue to meet their preventive care vaccination needs — all in one visit.