Sri Lanka’s immunization journey began in 1802 with the introduction of the smallpox vaccine and has since evolved into a globally recognized public health success. The launch of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) in 1978 marked a major milestone, enabling the country to maintain high vaccine coverage and expand the National Immunization Programme (NIP) to include twelve vaccines.

The country has successfully eliminated several vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), including poliomyelitis, measles, rubella, neonatal tetanus, and congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Ongoing efforts focus on controlling diseases such as hepatitis B, mumps, tuberculosis, and Japanese encephalitis.

The Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health has played a critical role in sustaining high immunization rates, even in the face of significant challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 measles outbreak. Since the 1960s, the Advisory Committee on Communicable Diseases (ACCD/NITAG) has guided evidence-based vaccine policy and facilitated inclusive stakeholder engagement. This decision-making process is supported by a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system, which includes VPD surveillance, Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) surveillance, annual EPI reviews, and national immunization summits.

Sri Lanka pioneered AEFI surveillance in 1996, strengthening vaccine safety and public confidence. The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) ensures that all vaccines used in the country meet rigorous safety and quality standards.

Initially, vaccines were provided by UNICEF, but by 1995, the Government of Sri Lanka had assumed full financial responsibility for the programme. GAVI has supported the introduction of newer vaccines and provided crucial assistance during the economic crisis from 2023 to 2025.

To align with global scientific advancements, the National Immunization Summit 2025 was held on 28th March at BMICH, Colombo. The summit brought together policymakers, healthcare professionals, and international partners to review progress, share knowledge, and plan future strategies. Key discussions included reviewing the existing immunization schedule, updating stakeholders on global advancements in vaccine-preventable disease strategies, and assessing the feasibility of introducing new vaccines such as the Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV), Seasonal Influenza vaccine, and Meningococcal vaccine.

Looking ahead, Sri Lanka remains firmly committed to ensuring universal access to immunization, eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases, and advancing public health through sustained innovation, collaboration, and policy leadership.