National Immunisation Programme
Based on Article 5 of the Epidemics Act (EpG), the Federal Office of Public Health has developed a National Immunisation Programme (NIP). The NIP is a comprehensive prevention programme for Switzerland. It comprises the National Vaccination Strategy (NVS), adopted by the Federal Council on 11 January 2017, and the associated action plan. The aim of this programme is to protect the population adequately against vaccine-preventable diseases. The Confederation, the Cantons and other stakeholders are now working together to implement them.
Why does Switzerland need a NIP?
Vaccination is one of the most effective and least expensive health measures. However, the vaccination system in Switzerland still has some weak points. Access to vaccinations is sometimes difficult, and some groups within the population are not convinced that certain vaccinations are necessary or effective. Furthermore, the roles and responsibilities of the parties involved are unclear.
The NVS creates a framework within which vaccines can be administered in a coordinated, effective and efficient manner to protect the population. It has three main goals:
- to encourage stakeholders to take the issue of vaccination seriously.
- to ensure that the public is given a good enough understanding of the issue to make an informed decision.
- to simplify access to vaccinations.
Framework strategy and action plan
The National Immunisation Programme (NIP) was developed in collaboration with the cantons and key stakeholders in the field of vaccination. It supports the application of vaccination recommendations in accordance with the Swiss Immunisation Schedule, as well as the implementation of recommendations and disease-specific strategies. It also sets out the strategic objectives and the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders involved. The accompanying action plan sets out these objectives in concrete terms, including corresponding measures, and regulates their implementation.
Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, certain tasks had to be put on hold temporarily. The experience gained in connection with the pandemic was incorporated into a revision. In April 2024, the revised Action Plan 2.0 was adopted.
How is the NIP implemented?
The strategy and action plan lay the foundation for coordinated collaboration between the federal and cantonal authorities and other stakeholders involved. This enables the coherent and integrated implementation of the NIP and strengthens the population’s immunity.
Further information
Further topics
Vaccinations and prevention
Infectious diseases can have serious consequences. Vaccinations are the most effective form of protection, not only for your own child. There are also medicinal prophylactic treatments for diseases such as malaria.
Communicable Diseases Legislation – Epidemics Act, (EpidA)
The Epidemics Act aims to ensure that communicable diseases are detected, monitored, prevented and controlled at an early stage and helps to better manage disease outbreaks with a high risk potential.
Federal Office of Public Health FOPH
Schwarzenburgstrasse 157
Switzerland - 3003 Bern