NUVI - Norms and Standards
Over time, an increasing number of vaccine formulations and presentations have become available: different combinations of antigens; different formulations of vaccines (lyophilized, liquid or a combination of both); different methods of vaccine administration; and different vaccine presentations (single or multi-dose vials, pre-filled syringes, mono-dose injection devices), with different packaging. As new vaccines are developed, choices will need to be made on the optimal formulations and presentations for use in the respective national programmes. To assist this process, a new web resource on "Introducing a vaccine - Policy and Programmatic Considerations" has been developed to address all programmatic issues and product characteristics for all WHO pre-qualfied vaccines.
Through the development of guidelines and manuals on vaccine characteristics and implementation issues, WHO, UNICEF and their partners assist countries with decisions related to vaccine availability and supply.
WHO headquarters, regional and country counterparts are involved in activities to ensure the quality and safety of new vaccines. These activities include developing new regulatory pathways, strengthening of National Regulatory Agencies and their collaboration with National Immunization Technical Advisory Committees and streamlining the vaccine prequalification process to ensure programmatic suitability of vaccines.
Last updated: August 2010
