Brookfield Pediatrician Named Connecticut’s 2025 Immunization Champion

BROOKFIELD, CT — Dr. Claire Free, a longtime pediatrician and former Brookfield health director, has been named Connecticut’s 2025 Immunization Champion by the Association of Immunization Managers and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The national award recognizes individuals who make exceptional contributions to promoting vaccinations and public health in their communities. Dr. Free is one of just 46 honorees nationwide selected this year.

She was celebrated by representatives from the Brookfield and Norwalk Health Departments and the Connecticut Department of Public Health’s Immunization Program during a recent recognition event.

Dr. Free’s dedication to vaccination began early in her medical career after witnessing the death of a young child from a preventable disease—an experience she has described as deeply formative.

“Dr. Free is a dedicated advocate for immunizations,” said Pam Bates, Immunization Action Plan coordinator for the Norwalk and Danbury areas. “She listens carefully to her patients, addresses concerns with trustworthy information, and reassures families that the benefits of vaccines far outweigh the risks.”

At Pediatric and Adolescent Health of Brookfield, Dr. Free partnered with the Norwalk Health Department’s Immunization Action Plan team on projects that significantly increased adolescent vaccination rates. Her office also worked to maintain accurate records in the state’s CT WiZ immunization system to ensure continuity of care following her retirement in May 2025.

As a member of the Norwalk/Danbury Immunization Advisory Committee, she collaborated with local health professionals, social service agencies, and child health programs to improve access to vaccines and strengthen community coverage.