Countries across the Western Pacific Region are working together to strengthen immunization programmes and accelerate progress toward a healthier future, with a focus on reaching underserved communities, eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases, and expanding protection across all stages of life.
The discussions took place during the 35th Meeting of the Technical Advisory Group on Immunization and Vaccine-Preventable Diseases in the Western Pacific Region, bringing together representatives from Member States, National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups, partners, and the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Western Pacific Region has achieved major immunization successes, including maintaining polio-free status for 25 years, eliminating measles and rubella in many countries and areas, and expanding HPV vaccination programmes across the region. These achievements demonstrate the impact of strong health systems and international collaboration.
However, challenges remain. Immunization programmes in some areas have not fully recovered from disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of children continue to miss routine vaccinations, while measles outbreaks have re-emerged in several communities.
Participants identified key priorities to guide immunization efforts through 2030, including reducing the number of zero-dose and under-immunized children, sustaining measles and rubella elimination, and expanding vaccination beyond childhood to protect adolescents, adults, pregnant women, and older populations.
The meeting highlighted that improving vaccination coverage requires more than access to vaccines. Building trust, addressing misinformation, understanding community concerns, and using social and behavioural approaches are essential to ensuring people receive lifesaving immunization services.
Countries also emphasized the importance of stronger collaboration, improved data systems, reliable vaccine supply chains, sustainable financing, and a skilled health workforce. Digital innovation, including responsible use of new technologies, was discussed as a way to improve planning, identify gaps, and strengthen immunization delivery.
The meeting reinforced the need for country-led solutions and regional cooperation to overcome shared challenges. Recommendations from the discussions will help shape future regional health strategies and support efforts toward global immunization goals.
With continued partnership and shared responsibility, countries across the Western Pacific aim to build stronger immunization systems that protect communities and improve health security for generations to come.
