Each month we highlight select National Health Observances (NHOs) that align with our mission to improve health in the United States. In August, we are raising awareness about breastfeeding, immunizations, and children’s eye health and safety.
We’ve listed some resources below that you can use to promote these NHOs with your networks.
- National Breastfeeding Month
In the month of August, the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee sponsors National Breastfeeding Month to support babies and families. This year’s theme is This is Our Why – a time to celebrate lactating parents and the work to support breastfeeding. Share our MyHealthfinder resources on breastfeeding and quick tips for eating healthy while breastfeeding. You can also share these Dietary Guidelines fact sheets on building a healthy eating routine when breastfeeding and building a healthy eating routine for your baby. Finally, be sure to check out these Healthy People 2030 evidence-based resources related to breastfeeding and infant health.
- Black Breastfeeding Week (August 25 - 31)
Black Breastfeeding Week is recognized on August 25 - 31 to bring awareness to the racial disparity in breastfeeding rates among Black mothers. This year’s theme is Celebrating Connection & Our Communities. Be sure to check out information from the Office on Women’s Health (OWH) about the health benefits of breastfeeding. You can also share OWH’s guide to breastfeeding. And check out OWH’s partner resources to find prewritten social media messages you can use to spread the word.
- National Immunization Awareness Month
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes National Immunization Awareness Month in August to highlight the importance of routine vaccination for all people. Share our list of MyHealthfinder vaccine resources to help people protect their health and stay up to date on their vaccines. And explore the Healthy People 2030 vaccination objective and evidence-based resources on vaccination programs that can be implemented in various settings.
- Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
The American Academy of Ophthalmology sponsors Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month each August to highlight the importance of protecting children’s vision and eye health. The National Eye Institute (NEI) has kid-friendly resources you can share to help kids and parents learn about eye health. You can also share our MyHealthfinder resource on getting your child’s vision checked . And don’t forget to take a look at the Healthy People 2030 objectives related to sensory and communication disorders.
We hope we’ve made it easier for you to promote these NHO’s on your channels and with your networks. Together, we can take steps to improve health within our nation.
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National Health Observances
