Experts Discussed Vaccine Strategies in New Delhi
The WHO South-East Asia immunization meeting addressed progress on regional vaccine goals and ongoing measles outbreaks.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Diseases — General
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Immunization experts gathered in New Delhi for the 17th meeting of the WHO South-East Asia Regional Immunization Technical Advisory Group. The summit focused on vaccine implementation progress and strategies to close immunity gaps that have fueled measles outbreaks in the region.
Why it matters
The region is currently confronting measles outbreaks caused by immunity gaps among older children and adolescents. Addressing these vulnerabilities is critical to sustaining gains in disease control and meeting long-term immunization targets.
Official reports indicate a 94% regional coverage for the third dose of the DTP vaccine and a 65% reduction in zero-dose children since 2021. Experts are now working to increase HPV vaccination coverage from 7% in 2025 to a 48% target in 2026.
The players
WHO South-East Asia Regional Immunization Technical Advisory Group
This body serves as the primary advisory entity for the World Health Organization regarding immunization policies and progress in the South-East Asia Region.
The details
The meeting involves 120 experts and stakeholders reviewing the Regional Vaccine Implementation Plan 2022-2026. Deliberations cover essential pillars including immunization financing, workforce capacity building, enhanced surveillance systems, and strategies to mitigate vaccine hesitancy.
Timeline
September 23-25, 2026: The three-day SEAR ITAG meeting is held.
2025: The region achieved its highest vaccine coverage and estimated 2 million under-vaccinated children.
2022-2026: The timeline for the current Regional Vaccine Implementation Plan.
2021: The baseline year for the 65% reduction in zero-dose children.
2019: The region recorded 4.5 million un- or under-vaccinated children.
The Big Picture
This assembly marks a critical checkpoint for the Regional Vaccine Implementation Plan 2022-2026, which outlines the comprehensive strategy for disease elimination across the region.
The regional push to close immunity gaps aims to reduce the incidence of preventable diseases like measles and rubella, which directly protects public health in affected communities. Efforts to improve HPV vaccination availability are designed to increase long-term access to essential preventative screenings.
The takeaway
Closing the immunity gap for older children and adolescents remains a primary focus for international health officials in the coming year. Improving infrastructure for vaccine delivery and addressing hesitancy are essential steps to reaching the 48% HPV coverage target by 2026.
Further reading
For more on the current status of regional immunization efforts, visit the Diseases — General section.
Live Poll
Do you believe your local health authorities are doing enough to close childhood vaccination gaps?
