National Immunization Awareness Week 2026
The Time is Now! Get Immunized
The time is now to stand up for vaccines.
Each year, National Immunization Awareness Week highlights the importance of immunization in protecting individuals, families, and communities. In 2026, this week takes place from April 26 to May 2, aligning with Vaccination Week in the Americas and World Immunization Week.
At Archipel Ontario Health Team, we recognize immunization as a cornerstone of a strong and resilient health system. Vaccines remain one of the most effective tools we have to prevent serious illness, reduce strain on the healthcare system, and improve long-term population health outcomes.
Accessing vaccines: key information for the public
Vaccines are available through multiple pathways across our region, including for individuals without a family doctor, older adults, and newcomers to Canada.
If you do not have a family doctor, you can still access vaccines through:
- Walk-in clinics in the community
- Public health clinics (see regional resources below)
- Community health services and vaccination programs
Efforts across the system continue to focus on reducing barriers related to geography, language, and access to care.
Older adults: staying protected over time
Vaccination remains important throughout life, especially for older adults.
As we age, the risk of complications from infections such as influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, shingles, and RSV increases. Staying up-to-date with recommended vaccines helps reduce the risk of hospitalization and serious illness and supports healthy aging and independence.
- Learn more about vaccines recommended for older adults.
Newcomers to Canada
For newcomers, immunization is an important step in supporting long-term health and integration into the healthcare system.
- Resources on immunization for newcomers
In Ottawa, newcomers (including those without OHIP) aged 18+ may also access vaccines and immunization record reviews through Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs.
Why this matters now?
In recent years, growing misinformation, mistrust in science, and increasing polarization have contributed to declining confidence in vaccines. In some regions, immunization rates are no longer high enough to prevent outbreaks. In 2025, Canada lost its measles-elimination status, an important reminder that progress in public health cannot be taken for granted.
At the same time, changes to vaccination guidance in other jurisdictions have created uncertainty and reinforced the need for clear, evidence-based communication here in Canada.
Vaccines: a proven public health success
Not long ago, diseases such as measles, polio, diphtheria, and meningitis posed significant threats to population health. Today, thanks to vaccines, many of these illnesses are preventable.
Vaccines undergo rigorous testing and ongoing safety monitoring. The evidence is clear: they are safe, effective, and essential to preventing serious illness and death. Their widespread use has significantly improved health outcomes and quality of life.
Beyond infection prevention
Vaccination offers benefits that go beyond preventing infectious diseases. Emerging evidence suggests that vaccines may also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and support brain health by preventing infection-related complications such as inflammation, stroke, and myocardial infarction.
Vaccines save lives. Over the past 50 years, vaccines have saved an estimated 154 million lives worldwide, and they continue to prevent 3.5 million to 5 million deaths every year.
As part of routine care, vaccination represents a low-risk, cost-effective intervention that supports both immediate and long-term health outcomes. By preventing avoidable infections and complications, immunization also helps reduce pressure on primary care and hospital services, supporting better system capacity for those who need care most.
A shared responsibility
This is not the time to turn back the clock on life-saving innovation.
The time is now to:
- Reaffirm trust in vaccines
- Rely on clear, evidence-based information
- Counter misinformation
- Stay informed
- Ensure immunizations are up-to-date.
We all have a role to play in strengthening vaccine confidence and improving access across our communities.
Resources
To support informed decision-making and equitable access to immunization, we encourage you to explore the following resources:
Health and community partners are encouraged to help share consistent, evidence-based immunization information across their networks during NIAW 2026.
Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) Immunization Clinics
The Eastern Ontario Health Unit offers immunization clinics across all office locations in the region.
- Vaccines under Ontario’s Routine Immunization Schedule (including influenza) are free of charge.
- School-based clinics are offered for select youth vaccines.
- Services are available for individuals without a primary care provider.
- Appointments are required
- For more information, visit the EOHU's website or dial 1-800-267-7120 or 613-933-1375.
For Ottawa Residents
The Ottawa Public Health supports access to vaccines through multiple pathways.
Routine vaccines
- Family doctors or nurse practitioners
- Walk-in clinics
- Post-secondary health services
- Occupational health services (workplace requirements)
High-risk and publicly funded vaccines
- Through healthcare providers or walk-in clinics
- Clinic search tools if no provider is available
- Resources for newcomers to Canada
- COVID-19 and flu vaccines
For up-to-date information on vaccine availability, visit Ottawa Public Health.
Join us in recognizing National Immunization Awareness Week and in continuing to build a healthier, more informed, and more connected community.
