The role of NITAGs in government decisions on vaccine use: insights from the Fifth Global NITAG Network meeting

In many countries national immunisation programmes are the backbone of primary health care and represent a substantial share in health-care expenditures. [...]the introduction and use of a vaccine in a public health programme require a strategic decision resulting in a long-term commitment. Evidence-based, independent, transparent, and timely recommendations made by NITAGs are instrumental to the success of both current and future immunisation programmes. [...]during health crises, they are pivotal in contributing to guiding outbreak responses and participating in pandemic recovery efforts. The COVID-19 pandemic also underscored the importance of mobilising established global, regional, and subregional networks: promoting the exchange of experiences, comparing policies among neighbouring countries, and maintaining effective communication were crucial.4 In addition, the pandemic showed the value of increased interactions with WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization including regular updates of global-level recommendations.