Evidence-informed vaccination decision-making in countries: Progress, challenges and opportunities

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Immunization Policy
• Vaccinology

Background:

• The global vaccination landscape is increasingly complex due to evolving infectious disease epidemiology.
• There is a growing number and diversity of vaccine-preventable diseases, products, and technologies.
• National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs) are vital for independent, evidence-based vaccination decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the growing importance and functionality of NITAGs.
• To emphasize the need for continued capacity building for NITAGs.
• To ensure NITAGs remain responsive to future immunization challenges.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review and analysis of the current state and future needs of NITAGs.
• It synthesizes information on the growth and function of NITAGs over the past decade.
• It identifies areas for capacity building to meet future demands.

Main Results:

• NITAGs have experienced substantial growth in numbers and functionality globally over the last ten years.
• There is a clear need to consolidate progress and enhance NITAG capacity.
• Further development is required to ensure NITAGs can address the evolving immunization landscape.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening NITAGs is critical for transparent, country-owned, and evidence-based immunization policies.
• Continued investment in NITAG capacity building is essential for public health.
• NITAGs must adapt to remain effective in the face of future vaccination challenges.