South-East Asia Immunization Strategies Have Evolved
Experts met to address measles outbreaks and scale up HPV vaccine coverage across the region.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Diseases — General
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Immunization experts gathered in New Delhi to review progress on regional vaccination goals while managing ongoing measles outbreaks caused by immunity gaps. The meeting assessed key performance metrics, including progress toward measles and rubella elimination across member states.
Why it matters
Closing immunity gaps among older children and adolescents is critical for public health as the region works to stabilize its vaccination infrastructure. These deliberations aim to address persistent challenges in workforce capacity and vaccine hesitancy that contribute to current disease transmission.
Official WHO data shows 94% coverage for the third dose of DTP vaccine in 2025, alongside a 65% reduction in zero-dose children since 2021. Experts are evaluating these figures against current gaps in measles and rubella control, where only 4 and 7 of 10 member states respectively have achieved elimination.
The players
WHO South-East Asia Regional Immunization Technical Advisory Group
An international body of experts tasked with guiding vaccine strategy and policy for member states.
The details
The advisory group is evaluating progress under the Regional Vaccine Implementation Plan 2022-2026, which coordinates immunization financing and surveillance systems across the region. Experts are specifically addressing the mechanics of vaccine hesitancy and workforce capacity issues that prevent consistent coverage. By strengthening regional surveillance, the group aims to identify and close immunity gaps that currently sustain measles transmission in adolescents.
Timeline
2019 marked the baseline for 4.5 million un- or under-vaccinated children.
2021 established the baseline for a 65% reduction in zero-dose children.
2022-2026 represents the current Regional Vaccine Implementation Plan timeline.
2025 saw the highest vaccine coverage rates to date.
September 23-25, 2026, served as the three-day meeting duration.
Health Landscape
This meeting assesses progress toward the Regional Vaccine Implementation Plan 2022-2026, building upon current immunization success metrics. It sits within a broader historical arc of improving regional surveillance to move beyond basic infant coverage toward life-course immunization goals.
These regional developments emphasize the importance of ensuring that children and adolescents remain up to date on all recommended vaccinations, including measles boosters. Consult your local pediatrician or health authority to verify that your family's immunization records meet current national standards.
The takeaway
Maintaining high community vaccination coverage is the primary defense against recurring outbreaks caused by regional immunity gaps. It is worth discussing your family's immunization status with your physician to ensure protection against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Further reading
For broader context on current vaccine surveillance, visit the Diseases — General section.
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Do you believe your local health authorities are doing enough to close childhood vaccination gaps?
