From 20 to 26 April, European immunization week is held for the fifteenth time under the auspices of the world health organization. The purpose of the event is to demonstrate the importance of vaccination for many aspects of human health and well – being throughout life. During the week, events in different parts of the European region will focus on the many benefits of immunization and the contribution it makes to people's health and well-being. After all, thanks to immunization:
- Prevention of diseases that can lead to the death of a child or have an irreversible impact on the entire subsequent life;
- Support for family health and healthy aging;
- Prevention of several types of cancer;
- Reducing the threat of antimicrobial resistance.
The first WHO European immunization week was held in 2005, when only a few countries in the Region participated. The goal of the initiative was to increase vaccination coverage by spreading the message that every child needs and is entitled to protection from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Now immunization week has become one of the most visible and well-known public health campaigns in the European region. All countries of the Region, without exception, are invited to take part in it. Public health institutions, medical professionals, decision makers and policy makers, as well as parents can contribute to thematic events.
