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Division of Vaccines and Immunization

The Division supports Member Countries in their efforts to deliver equitable vaccination programs in the Americas, and, whenever warranted, to introduce additional vaccines in routine immunization programs in a sustainable way. HVP's technical cooperation will emphasize two lines of action.

Expanded Program on Immunization (HVI)

  • Strengthen and support national surveillance systems for vaccine-preventable diseases, that operate in conjunction with adequate laboratory support systems, through the expansion of the regional network of diagnostic and quality control laboratories.
  • Promote the application of new techniques to improve regional disease surveillance and developing electronic networks that make it possible to increase the speed with which suspected cases are reported and confirmed.
  • Expand and improve vaccinations carried out by the public and private sectors, including nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
  • Developing and strengthening public health laboratories and national, subregional and regional diagnostic laboratory networks.
  • Support the vaccine supply and procurement systems to contain costs and increase availability of priority vaccines.


Vaccine Tecnology Access (HVA)

  • Support sub-regional and regional mechanisms for the regulatory harmonization of vaccines and promote the adoption of vaccine safety standards.
  • Support the formulation of national and institutional research and health technology (vaccines) policies that will permit the development of the knowledge and technologies (vaccines) necessary for taking effective action in public health.
  • Determine the disease burden and ensure cost-effective inclusion of vaccines against Haemophilus influenzae type b, MR, or MMR within basic vaccination series.
  • Promote research and development of vaccines, in collaboration with public sector laboratories, ensuring that local vaccine production is economically and technically viable and adheres to good manufacturing practices, as well as national and international norms and standards.
  • Promote the consortium of public laboratories that produce vaccines and the adoption of good manufacturing practices, and continuing the regional certification process for vaccine producers.