Dear Colleagues,
We are over a year into battling the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to achieve equitable vaccine coverage for all has become all the more important. New WUENIC immunization coverage estimates for 2020 were released in July, reflecting the anticipated backsliding in vaccination coverage as a byproduct of the pandemic. Rotavirus vaccine coverage, an already lagging routine immunization, was not exempt from this calamity. Despite ongoing challenging times, small victories continue to be made to increase access to and advocacy for rotavirus vaccines globally. In July, an updated WHO position paper was published re-emphasizing the importance of rotavirus vaccination and incorporating updates such as the two rotavirus vaccines prequalified in 2018—ROTAVAC and ROTASIIL. We are also fortunate to have many exceptional experts, researchers, and advocates in the field, committing to preventing severe diarrheal disease—some of whom we continue to gather insights from through our ROTA Champions Series included in this update.
Regards,
Mathu Santosham, Chair
In this edition…
- Important Updates
- Advocacy Initiative Updates
- Upcoming Events
- New Research
- Upcoming Events
- For Early-Career Professionals