Strengthening Cross-Border Preparedness: WHO India & Nepal Combat Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (2026)

In November 2025, a crucial gathering of Surveillance Medical Officers (SMOs) from the WHO's India and Nepal offices took place in Gorakhpur, India, and Biratnagar, Nepal. This cross-border capacity-building meeting aimed to strengthen preparedness and collaboration against vaccine-preventable disease (VPD) outbreaks along the shared border. The sessions focused on providing SMOs with essential tools and strategies for effective outbreak response, particularly for priority vaccine-preventable diseases. The WHO Country Offices (WCOs) of Nepal and India have a network of SMOs who offer technical support for high-quality VPD surveillance at the subnational level. The meeting covered an overview of the International Health Regulations (IHR) and emergency response framework, offering attendees valuable insights into global public health emergency standards. Participants received updates on standard operating procedures for handling poliovirus, measles, and rubella outbreaks, ensuring coordinated and swift action in cross-border scenarios. Additionally, the meeting included capacity-building sessions on comprehensive outbreak preparedness and response for measles and rubella, along with risk mitigation strategies. A tabletop simulation exercise on polio and measles outbreaks across international borders was conducted, allowing participants to exchange insights, discuss management approaches, and enhance cross-border collaboration in addressing health threats. The primary objective of these meetings was to foster improved cooperation and coordination between the two WHO country teams, ultimately bolstering the region's ability to prevent and control VPD outbreaks. By strengthening partnerships and aligning strategies, the region is better equipped to prevent, detect, and manage vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks, thereby safeguarding public health along the border and beyond.