Clinical Report: National Immunization Awareness Month and Respiratory Therapists

Overview

National Immunization Awareness Month highlights the role of respiratory therapists in promoting vaccinations among patients at high risk for respiratory infections.

Background

Vaccination is a preventive measure against serious respiratory illnesses, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma and COPD. Respiratory therapists can educate patients about the importance of staying current with immunizations.

Data Highlights

The CDC reported that during the 2024–2025 influenza season, vaccination efforts prevented 10 million illnesses, 5 million medical visits, 180,000 hospitalizations, and 12,000 deaths. Vaccination rates for adults were 41.9%, and for children aged 6 months to 17 years, 50.2%.

Key Findings

• Influenza vaccination can reduce the impact of respiratory diseases, with millions of illnesses and hospitalizations prevented.
• Vaccination rates have decreased, with only 41.9% of adults and 50.2% of children vaccinated during the 2024–2025 season.
• RSV poses risks to older adults, with 110,000 to 180,000 hospitalizations annually in the U.S.
• The CDC recommends a single lifetime dose of the RSV vaccine for adults aged 75 and older and those aged 50-74 at high risk.
• Pneumococcal vaccination is advised for all adults aged 50 and older, particularly those with chronic lung diseases.
• Respiratory therapists can promote vaccination during patient interactions.

Clinical Implications

Respiratory therapists should engage patients in discussions about their vaccination history and the importance of immunizations.

Conclusion

The role of respiratory therapists in promoting vaccinations is important as vaccination rates decline.

Related Resources & Content

1. American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), AARC Perspectives, 2023 -- The Critical Role RTs Play in Asthma Education
2. American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), AARC Perspectives, 2023 -- The Hidden Power of RTs in Smoking Cessation
3. the pathologist, 2023 -- The Next Step for Respiratory Diagnostics
4. CDC, 2025 -- Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices
5. CDC, 2026 -- Interim Estimates of 2025–26 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness
6. American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) — AARC Statement on RT Overnight Coverage
7. Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2025–26 Influenza Season
8. Interim Estimates of 2025–26 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness —