About us
The mission of our Department (Immunization, Vaccines and Biologicals) is the attainment of a world in which all people at risk are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Our work covers a range of activities including standard-setting, research and development, vaccine regulation and quality, vaccine supply and immunization financing, and immunization system strengthening. We focus on current and emerging diseases of concern to public health, especially in developing countries.
Strategic framework
Our activities are guided by the principles set out in the WHO/UNICEF Global Immunization Vision and Strategy 2006-2015, a framework for fully realizing the potential of immunization in controlling morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Global Immunization Vision and Strategy 2006-2015
- La vaccination dans le monde: vision et stratégie 2006-2015
Key output of the Department includes policy recommendations, such as the WHO position papers on vaccines. These policy recommendations are the result of careful consideration by WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE), and supporting committees, such as the Expert Committee on Biological Standardization (ECBS) and the Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS).
- More information on the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization
- More information on the Expert Committee on Biological Standardization
- More information on the Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety
Department structure and funding
The Department's draft Strategic Plan for 2010-2015 emphasizes technical collaboration, integration and synergies and the closing of remaining gaps.
Priority areas of work:
- Strengthening routine programmes to reach unimmunized populations
- Improving national capacity to introduce new vaccines
- Building synergies for disease control and prevention
- Ensuring that all countries have access to vaccines of assured quality
- Formulating evidence-based policies for vaccine use
Last updated: 8 July 2011