LEBANON – Minister of Public Health Rakan Nassereddine launched the National Immunization Strategy at Rafik Hariri University Hospital, in cooperation with the European Union, UNICEF, the World Health Organization, the Lebanese Red Cross, and the Gavi Alliance, coinciding with World Immunization Week.

The strategy aims to strengthen vaccination coverage across Lebanon and ensure that all children are reached, especially in affected areas and displacement centers, amid ongoing challenges resulting from multiple crises and population displacement.

The minister stressed that the ministry is working on two parallel tracks: emergency response and providing healthcare services for displaced populations, alongside the continuity of routine health programs such as vaccinations and chronic disease medications.

He also underscored the importance of immunization as a vital and effective tool to protect children against serious diseases such as measles and polio, noting that current challenges increase the risk of missed vaccinations.

International partners (the European Union, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization) reaffirmed their support for Lebanon’s vaccination program, emphasizing that vaccines save lives and contribute to strengthening the resilience of the health system, particularly in times of crisis.

UNICEF further noted that vaccination services are available free of charge through primary healthcare centers across Lebanon, with ongoing efforts to reach the most vulnerable children through mobile clinics and community-based programs.

The concerned parties concluded by stressing the need for continued investment in immunization to protect public health and prevent disease outbreaks.