World Immunisation Week 2026 Campaign

Complete Your Vaccination Course: A Key Step in Preventing Encephalitis

World Immunization Week takes place every year between 24th and 30 the April, aiming to educate the public about why vaccines are necessary for the health of millions of people around the world. Under the theme, “For every generation, vaccines work”, this World Immunization Week 2026, World Health Organisation (WHO)  will promote how vaccines have safely protected people, families, and communities for generations – and continue to safeguard our future.

Encephalitis International is proud to be part of this campaign and this year, we aim to raise both the public and healthcare professional understanding of the the critical importance of completing full vaccination schedules.

Many vaccines designed to prevent infectious diseases—including those that can lead to encephalitis (e.g., Japanese encephalitis, tick-borne encephalitis, measles, mumps and rubella)—require completion of their courses to offer full protection. Evidence from healthcare partners and recent academic studies shows concerning drop-off rates between first, second, third, and booster doses of many routine vaccines. This trend leaves individuals, families, and communities vulnerable to preventable illnesses and outbreaks.

In addition to in-country vaccination programs, travellers must also think about their vaccination scheduling – healthy travel starts before you leave home. Completing the recommended vaccination schedule—and ensuring you’re up to date on travel-specific vaccines—protects you from serious infections abroad and helps prevent their spread when you return.

————————————————————————————————————–

Financial support to develop information and awareness resources has been provided to Encephalitis International by Bavarian Nordic for materials relating to the World Immunization Week 2026 campaign.