First Lady Dawn Moore Launches Partners in Protection
Back-to-School Vaccination Campaign

ANNAPOLIS, MD – First Lady Dawn Moore today, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Health, launched a back-to-school vaccinations public awareness campaign during Immunization Awareness Month in Maryland. Featuring First Lady Moore, State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey Wright, Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Laura Herrera Scott and trusted providers, the Partners in Protection campaign urges parents and caregivers to make sure their children get required back-to-school vaccinations. 

“I want to thank Maryland families for keeping our children safe with vaccines. Last year, more than 98 percent of students statewide began the school year vaccinat​ed and ready to learn,” said First Lady Dawn Moore. “Our administration will continue to strive to improve health care access and outcomes for all of Maryland’s families.”

"As Dawn and I get ready for back-to-school season in our own home, we encourage all Maryland families to ensure their children are protected and healthy," said Gov. Moore. "Our direct message to every Marylander is simple: Make sure your kids are up-to-date on annual vaccinations, so they can stay safe and active this school year."

Partners in Protection highlights the importance of back-to-school vaccinations to protect our kids, our families and our communities. The campaign will run through August across the Maryland Department of Health’s digital platforms and serves as the launch of a wider statewide public awareness campaign about vaccinations and respiratory virus protection that will continue through February 2025. 

“Vaccines have saved more than 146 million children worldwide in the past 50 years, and have helped cut infant mortality by approximately 40 percent since 1974, according to a recent study by the World Health Organization,” said Maryland Department of Health Dr. Laura Herrera Scott. “Vaccinations protect what is most important to us—our children and their future.”

The wider vaccination campaign is supported by a $1.8 million grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and will focus more broadly on vaccinations for all ages. Partners in Protection will also raise public awareness when the seasonal flu shot and updated COVID-19 vaccine are available this fall, and will continue to highlight RSV treatments and vaccinations available for older adults, pregnant people and infants throughout the height of cold and flu season. 

“Now is the time to make sure that children have recommended and required vaccinations. The first step is checking with your child’s physician or visiting local health clinics,” said State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey Wright. “As we prepare for another school year, we want all students to be ready to learn.”

Maryland maintains vaccination requirements for participation in child care and public schools. To find a local vaccination clinic near you, contact your local health department or visit health.maryland.gov/vaccines. 

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