WHO SAGE on Immunisation
WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation (SAGE) is the principal advisory group to the World Health Organization (WHO) on global immunisation policies and strategies. Its scope includes vaccines, immunisation technologies, research and development, and the delivery of vaccination programs—often in coordination with broader health interventions.
Professor Kim Mulholland, a leading authority in the field of vaccines and a senior figure at Melbourne Children’s Global Health, has been a member of the SAGE since 2020. Professor Fiona Russell will join the committee in 2026.
How SAGE Works
SAGE meets at least twice annually, with working groups formed to explore specific issues in depth. These groups gather and assess evidence, offering insights and recommendations that inform full SAGE discussions. Meeting priorities and agendas are set in collaboration with WHO.
Observers at SAGE meetings include representatives from:
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UNICEF
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GAVI Alliance Secretariat
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WHO Regional Offices
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Regional technical advisory groups
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NGOs, professional organisations, donor agencies, technical bodies, and vaccine manufacturers
Additional subject-matter experts may be invited as needed to contribute to particular topics.
Ongoing Engagement
SAGE members are expected to contribute actively throughout the year to:
- Review current and available vaccine and immunisation information
- Make recommendations for the Extended Program on Immunisation (EPI) which informs national vaccine programs, dosage and schedules
- Approve new vaccines
SAGE’s mission is to ensure that WHO’s immunisation strategies are informed by robust, evidence-based advice.
Header image: © WHO / Tom Vierus