People around the world have been experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic up to the present day since 2019. While enduring the spread of the disease, efforts were made to develop vaccines. Now, once again, in relation to the outbreak of a newly emerging hantavirus infection for which there is no vaccine yet, preventive measures must be taken in advance before it occurs.
In Myanmar, the Ministry of Health has been providing expanded vaccination coverage for 13 diseases, including diphtheria, pertussis, measles, and tetanus, starting from early childhood, in line with other countries around the world, thereby protecting each generation against these diseases.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021, vaccine coverage fell to below 50 per cent. However, by 2025, vaccination coverage had increased to over 80 per cent, indicating a recovery and significant improvement in immunization rates. Since vaccination activities are included in the 100-day plan of the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, priority is being given to the implementation of vaccination and immunization programmes across the nation.
Through vaccination and immunization, all members of the public – regardless of age, race, or religion – can be protected from diseases. Vaccination is intended to prevent the outbreak of highly contagious diseases, reduce deaths caused by such illnesses, and avoid related complications. Therefore, the public is encouraged to actively cooperate with the dedicated efforts of healthcare workers and responsible authorities in implementing vaccination programmes.
In Myanmar, healthcare workers, volunteers, relevant departments, and people have been cooperating effectively, and vaccination activities are being carried out at an accelerated pace. As a result, there have been no large-scale outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases in the country.
The government has been procuring vaccines and related supplies through different mechanisms, including full funding from the state budget and cost-sharing arrangements between the government and international health organizations such as the World Health Organization. Each year, approximately US$10 million in public foreign exchange is spent, and vaccination programmes are being implemented with a strong emphasis on ensuring nationwide coverage.
Therefore, in order to promote the long and healthy lives of the public, increase life expectancy, and ensure the health and well-being of future generations, preventive vaccination measures are highly beneficial, as they help prevent diseases before they occur. The government places strong emphasis on providing healthcare services for the public and encourages the entire community, together with relevant health organizations, to actively participate in these efforts.