“Your decision makes a difference. Immunization for all” is the theme for the 2025 Vaccination Week in the Americas (VWA). This week promotes the equity, access and benefits of vaccines to vulnerable populations.

Earlier this year the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), released an epidemiological alert of measles, due to an increase in cases in the region of the Americas. The reasons cited were gaps in immunization coverage and the importation of the virus from outside the region. This followed the reverification of the Americas in 2024 as a measles free region, the first region in the world to accomplish this feat.

A release from the Office of the Chief Medical Officer, in observation of VWA, stated that the Ministry of Health has launched “an immunization campaign aimed at promoting the full range of vaccines available to the public.”

Special emphasis is being placed on three available vaccines: the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Gardasil Vaccine, which also offers protection from cervical cancer in adult women, the Influenza Vaccine, and the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) Vaccine.

Additionally, individuals who will be travelling, especially in places such as the USA, Canada and Mexico are encouraged to be aware of their vaccination status as measles are still in circulation in those areas.

Persons are encouraged to visit their nearest health centre for more information and to get vaccinated.