August in Washington state marks more than the final days of summer—it also highlights the importance of vaccinations beyond routine childhood or flu season schedules. In recognition of National Immunization Awareness Month, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is honoring individuals and organizations contributing to public health through the Immunize WA Awards and the Immunization Champion Award
“These awards shine a spotlight on providers and partners across Washington who are going above and beyond to keep people safe from vaccine-preventable diseases – whether that’s having conversations with parents about making sure their kids are up to date on immunizations or promoting vaccines in their own communities,” Jamilia Sherls, Director of the Office of Immunization at DOH, stated in a recent announcement. The effort comes as the state works to rapidly increase childhood immunization rates, which have fluctuated since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Immunize WA Awards recognize clinics that consistently meet or surpass immunization targets for children and teens. Clinics eligible for the 2025 awards achieved immunization rates of at least 70% for children and teens, and 25% or higher for the first HPV dose in 9- and 10-year-olds. A full list of this year’s awardees is available from the Washington State Department of Health.
As for the national level, there's the Immunization Champion Award, a tip of the hat from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Association of Immunization Managers (AIM), which singles out one stellar immunization advocate in each jurisdiction. This year’s Washington honoree is Wil Edwards, owner of Sid's Pharmacy in Pullman, recognized for his dedication to public health. More information on his contributions and past award recipients is available through the department's official website.
Washington residents without insurance can access recommended vaccines at no cost through the Adult Vaccine Program and the Childhood Vaccine Program (CVP). Children under 19 and uninsured adults 19 and older can receive vaccines from participating providers enrolled in these programs. A full list of required vaccines for the 2025–26 school year is available from the Department of Health, which also encourages following its social media channels for the latest updates.
