20–26 April 2020
The WHO European Region celebrates European Immunization Week (EIW) to raise awareness of the importance of immunization in preventing diseases and protecting life. This year, on 20–26 April 2020, EIW showcases the value of vaccines in many aspects of good health and wellbeing throughout life. As in previous years, EIW coincides with World Immunization Week. Highlights from all countries in the Region will be published after the event in the form of an EIW annual report.
WHO has designated 2020 the “Year of the Nurse and Midwife”, commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. Nurses and midwives are crucial to accomplishing universal health coverage (UHC), including by providing evidence-based information about vaccination, and in many countries administering vaccines. Recognition of this important role will also be reflected in EIW activities, materials and key messages.
Progress throughout the years
EIW was first implemented by a small number of countries in 2005. The goal was to increase vaccination coverage by raising awareness of every child’s need and right to be protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. Since its initiation, EIW has become one of the most visible public health campaigns in the European Region. All countries of the Region are invited to participate in EIW and contribute to the event by engaging public health institutes, health-care professionals, policy- and decision-makers as well as parents and caregivers. Key messages about vaccines will be spread across the Region through information campaigns, interviews, technical meetings, expert panel debates, television programmes, scientific conferences and many other activities.
As one of the most cost-effective health interventions, vaccination is a cornerstone of UHC and is vital to achieving optimal health for all, everywhere. Progress towards UHC and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 – ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages – are priorities in the Region and around the world. Through raising awareness of the importance of immunization, the activities implemented as part of EIW aim to increase vaccination coverage and thus ultimately contribute to UHC and SDG3 across the Region.