The highly anticipated Adolescent Immunization Action Week (AIAW) is set to take place from April 7 to 11, 2025. The Unity Consortium, a non-profit organization committed to promoting adolescent and young adult immunization and preventive health, is urging families to "Stay on TASK" during this crucial week. The initiative aims to ensure that adolescents remain up to date with their well visits and vaccinations, combating the alarming trend of vaccine misinformation across the country.

Recent studies indicate that while most parents and teens recognize the necessity of vaccines, a significant number face barriers in finding trustworthy information. The rampant spread of misleading content on social media has contributed to increased vaccine hesitancy. Although these platforms hold massive influence, many view them as unreliable when it comes to matters of vaccine safety and efficacy. To tackle this, Unity Consortium is providing reliable resources to empower parents and teens with factual vaccine education during AIAW.

To navigate vaccine-related decisions more effectively, Unity encourages families to take the following four steps to ensure their teens stay informed and vaccinated:

1. Trust Credible Resources

Seek information from a variety of trustworthy sources. Numerous clinical studies have established that vaccines are safe and effective, and credible medical organizations widely reference these findings.

2. Ask Your Healthcare Provider

It's perfectly normal to have questions about vaccines. Make sure to have open discussions with healthcare providers, including your adolescents in these conversations.

3. Schedule Appointments

Keeping vaccinations current is critical, and it’s safe for individuals to receive multiple vaccines during a single visit.

4. Know Where to Get Vaccinated

In addition to doctors' offices, vaccines are also available at pharmacies, health clinics, and various health fairs.

Engage with AIAW 2025 Events!

A plethora of exciting events are scheduled to take place during the week of April 7-11:

- Webinar: "Countering Misinformation | Building Trust Together"

On April 10 at 12:00 pm ET, experts including Joel Bervell, MD, Alison Buttenheim, PhD, MBA and Celine Gounder, MD, ScM, FIDSA will discuss overcoming vaccine hesitancy. Chelsea Clinton will moderate the event.

- "Young Vaccine Champions: Countering Misinformation"

This virtual panel discussion, spearheaded by Todd Wolynn, MD, will feature young adults offering insights on how to differentiate fact from fiction regarding vaccines. The session will be on-demand starting April 8.

- "Vaccines for the Win!"

Instagram users aged 18 and over can participate for a chance to win $100. Simply share Unity Consortium’s pinned post from April 7 to April 11 to enter.

- Podcast Episode: FACTSinnated

Tune in on April 9 for a special episode featuring Dr. Cindy Leifer, who will delve into finding trusted vaccine information.

Why This Matters

"Adolescent immunization is vital for fostering a healthier future in our communities," stated Judy Klein, President of Unity Consortium. "In the face of rampant vaccine misinformation, it is essential for families to seek credible information, ask pertinent questions, and reserve time with healthcare providers to ensure their children receive the vaccines they require. AIAW serves as a catalyst for action towards the health and well-being of our youth."

For more information on Adolescent Immunization Action Week and to access educational resources and toolkits, visit unity4teenvax.org. Join the conversation on social media with the hashtag #AIAW25.

About Unity Consortium

Unity Consortium is a non-profit alliance uniting various stakeholders—including public and private organizations, academia, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups—around the common goal of preventing vaccine-preventable diseases. By collaborating, they tackle the unique challenges surrounding the health and immunization needs of adolescents and young adults.

> This is an invaluable opportunity for parents to safeguard their children’s health. Don’t let misinformation dictate your family's health choices—be informed and take action today!