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Member States reaffirm commitment to immunization at seventy-seventh World Health Assembly [1]

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Date: 2024-05 

In a significant demonstration of global solidarity and commitment to public health, Member States welcomed the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) Global Progress Report during the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly yesterday evening. The session was marked by strong participation, featuring 50 interventions, including three on behalf of regions (EMRO, AFRO, SEARO).

Delegates confirmed their unwavering support for Regional Action Plans and National Immunization Strategies, underscoring ongoing efforts to bolster immunization programs. Key initiatives highlighted included the ‘Big Catch-up,’ aimed at recovering ground lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the introduction of new vaccines such as those for malaria and HPV.

Donors reiterated their financial commitment to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, ensuring sustained support for global immunization efforts. Despite this, several Member States voiced concerns about the challenges posed by the ongoing polycrisis—including climate change, conflicts, and economic instability. A number of Member States highlighted concerns with measles outbreaks and the need to urgently close the immunity gaps. These issues are particularly impacting measles outbreak prevention and response across all income groups, with middle-income countries facing difficulties in securing external support for new vaccine introductions and response to crises.

In their interventions, Member States called for the integration of life-course vaccination within primary health care systems to sustain immunization achievements. This includes enhanced community mobilization, political leadership, and domestic funding aimed at strengthening surveillance and equitable delivery systems. The need for an adequate health workforce, enhanced integration of international funding, and continued investments in local vaccine manufacturing and harmonized regulation for supply security were also emphasized.

During the session, delegates also underscored the urgent need to fast-track the implementation and adoption of new tuberculosis vaccines. Key strategies highlighted include promoting and funding a comprehensive learning agenda to boost preparedness, streamline regulatory processes, and ensure global access.

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[1] Url: https://www.who.int/news/item/30-05-2024-member-states-reaffirm-commitment-to-immunization-at-seventy-seventh-world-health-assembly

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