Role of National Immunization Technical Advisory Group on improvement of immunization programmes in the Islamic Republic of Iran

The National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) was established in Iran in 1982 and has made many important technical recommendations (e.g., regarding polio eradication, introduction of new vaccines, organizing special studies) that have contributed to a dramatic decline in vaccine preventable disease burden. The NITAG consists of experts from the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME), vaccine manufacturers, and medical universities with national Expanded Program of Immunization (EPI) staff serving as the secretariat. It is not completely independent from MOHME or EPI. It meets on a quarterly basis, and publishes national guidelines and immunization schedules that are updated regularly. Although primarily an advisory body, representation from MOHME members, including the EPI manager, ensures almost universal implementation of NITAG recommendations.