Under the theme “Your choice makes a difference. Immunization for all,” Bermuda will participate in Vaccination Week in the Americas (VWA) 2026, taking place from 26 April to 1 May, 2026.
This year’s campaign places particular emphasis on MMR, HPV, and adult immunisations, underscoring the Ministry of Health’s commitment to ensuring that the public has access to clear, accurate, and trusted information about vaccines that protect the health of our community.
VWA is a Pan American Health Organization initiative that brings countries across the region together to strengthen public awareness of the importance of routine vaccination. Bermuda will mark the week with a series of activities and community engagement events designed to promote vaccine confidence, highlight key immunization messages, and support informed decision‑making.
“Vaccination Week allows us to engage directly with our community, answer questions, and ensure that people have reliable information about the vaccines that protect our children, families, and seniors,” said Minister of Health Kim Wilson. “Routine immunization remains one of the most effective tools we have to prevent serious illness, and we are committed to supporting the public with transparent, accessible information.”
As part of the week’s activities, the Department of Health’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) team will host a “Let’s Talk HPV” Panel Discussion and Vaccine Communications Feedback Expo on 27 April from 4 to 7 PM.
At 4 PM, community members and healthcare professionals are invited to review draft vaccine information pamphlets for six vaccines in Bermuda’s schedule. Participants will provide written feedback and join a short discussion to assess clarity, understanding, and confidence in the Expanded Programme on Immunization.
At 6 PM, a panel discussion will feature experts on HPV vaccination and HPV‑related cancers, including Dr. Chris Fosker, Medical Director at the Bermuda Cancer & Health Centre; Ms. Azuree Williams, Health Promotion, Bermuda Cancer & Health Centre; Dr. Kristen Woodward, Pediatrician at Edgewood Pediatric Centre; and Dr. Niall Uthman, Senior Medical Officer at the Department of Health.
Also joining the panel virtually is Dr. Tracy Evans-Gilbert, a consultant in Paediatrics, Tropical Medicine, and Public Health. She serves as a Senior Associate Lecturer in Paediatrics at the University of the West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica.
Minister Wilson added, “We encourage the public to attend this panel discussion, ask questions, and learn more about how vaccines protect our community. Together, we can continue to build a healthier Bermuda.”
On Thursday, 29 April, the Department of Health will hold an EPI workshop on immunization best practice, rollout strategy, product training, and policy updates, bringing together Ministry of Health staff and partners to share updates, collaborate, and plan next steps.