Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) continues to emerge as a critical public health concern worldwide, and its impact is particularly evident in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR), where it significantly affects infants, young children, and older adults. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, their introduction across the region remains limited. WHO emphasizes RSV vaccine, especially for infants and pregnant women, as a cost-effective way to reduce disease burden. However, national decisions on vaccine rollout require careful consideration of local epidemiological data, health system capacities, and available evidence on vaccine safety and efficacy.

To address this urgent need, EMPHNET organized a regional training in Amman, Jordan, from July 27 to 31, 2025, bringing together National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) members from Afghanistan, Djibouti, Pakistan, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen to strengthen their capacity to translate global evidence into context-specific policy recommendations for RSV vaccine introduction.

The training was designed based on the Evidence to Recommendation (EtR) framework, a globally recognized model that helps countries systematically evaluate scientific data and public health priorities. Through interactive sessions, practical exercises, and peer discussions, NITAG members explored the latest evidence on RSV vaccines, reviewed regional disease burden trends, and worked toward shaping policy decisions that reflect their national immunization goals.

“Given the growing burden of RSV in our region, timely and informed decision-making is critical,” said one of the facilitators. “This training empowered NITAG members to turn scientific evidence into actionable policy recommendations that can save lives.”

By the end of the workshop, participants had developed a set of preliminary recommendations for RSV vaccine introduction, tailored to the specific needs and health system contexts of their respective countries. In addition to enhancing technical skills, the training fostered stronger regional collaboration by facilitating knowledge exchange and building connections among NITAG members, paving the way for continued dialogue and joint efforts in advancing immunization strategies across the region.

In conclusion, recognizing the vital role that NITAGs play in shaping national immunization policies, EMPHNET remains committed to strengthening their capacity across the region. Through tailored support including improvement planning, training workshops, and the development of essential tools and resources, EMPHNET continues to empower NITAGs to function as effective, evidence-informed advisory bodies. This training is part of those efforts, equipping countries with the knowledge and skills needed to guide the potential introduction of the RSV vaccine through evidence-based decision-making.