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The WHO European Region celebrates European Immunization Week (EIW) to raise awareness of the importance of immunization in preventing diseases and protecting life.

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 initial realization, EIW has become one of the most visible public health campaigns in the 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 universal health coverage (UHC) and vital to achieving optimal health for all, everywhere. Progress towards UHC and Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3) – 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.

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