The Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunization-Past, Present and Future.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: In November 1999, WHO established the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunization as a multidisciplinary group of experts to provide high-level recommendations on vaccines and immunization.

METHODS

This review provides an overview of SAGE's work in the past 25 years. It further outlines the processes and methods currently used by SAGE and highlights some of its major achievements.

RESULTS

SAGE's global policies have driven action toward eradication, elimination and disease control and addressed the optimization of vaccination and immunization. In total, 27 major policy positions on vaccines/vaccine-preventable diseases have guided global public health. During times of epidemics and pandemics, interim recommendations issued by SAGE have responded iteratively in real-time to provide evidence-driven response policies. SAGE is an adaptive advisory group that has modified its procedures and working approaches to meet the evolving challenges in public health and stay up-to-date with evolving scientific and guideline development standards.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the last quarter century, SAGE has significantly contributed to shaping the immunization landscape. It has achieved and maintained a high level of integrity and credibility. The advisory group continues to be an authority in global public health, and its recommendations have profound implications for the health of individuals and populations across the globe.