Spanish Pediatricians Call for Vaccine Updates to Combat Rising Infections

Spain’s pediatricians are calling for updates to the national vaccination schedule in response to rising cases of measles, hepatitis A, and meningococcal B infections. The recommendations, presented at the XVII Immunizations Conference of the Spanish Association of Pediatrics (AEP) in Jerez de la Frontera, aim to bolster community immunity and prevent the re-emergence of these preventable diseases. These proposed changes reflect a growing concern among health professionals about declining vaccination rates and evolving epidemiological patterns across Europe and within Spain.

Addressing a Resurgence of Vaccine-Preventable Illnesses

Several infectious diseases previously well-controlled through vaccination are now showing signs of resurgence in Spain and other European countries. This trend prompted the AEP to convene its annual immunizations conference, bringing together over 300 specialists to discuss strategies for strengthening vaccination programs. The core of the discussion centers on three key modifications to the current vaccination calendar.

First, the AEP recommends advancing the second dose of the measles vaccine to 2 years of age. Currently, the second dose is typically administered later in childhood. This adjustment is based on the observed increase in measles cases, with 397 cases reported in 2025 – nearly double the 227 cases recorded in 2024. The World Health Organization (WHO) has even removed Spain from its list of countries with “eliminated measles” status due to these rising numbers. Achieving at least 95% coverage with two doses is crucial to interrupt measles transmission, but current coverage for the second dose in Spain hovers around 93%, with regional variations. Experts emphasize that this isn’t a failure of the vaccine itself, but rather a need to reinforce collective immunity.

Second, the AEP proposes introducing the hepatitis A vaccine for infants aged 12-15 months, along with a “catch-up” vaccination strategy for children and adolescents who haven’t previously received it. Recent data from Spain’s National Epidemiology Surveillance Network (RENAVE) show a significant increase in hepatitis A cases, nearly doubling between 2024 and 2025, with 1,864 cases reported up to week 52 of 2025. While Spain has historically been considered a low-endemicity country for hepatitis A, this shift necessitates a more proactive approach to vaccination. Currently, only Catalonia, Ceuta, and Melilla include hepatitis A vaccination as part of their routine childhood immunization schedules.

Finally, the AEP suggests extending meningococcal B vaccination to adolescents, not just infants. Currently, vaccination against meningococcal B is primarily limited to infants. However, approximately one in four adolescents carries the bacteria in their nasopharynx, making them a significant reservoir for the disease. Meningococcal B is particularly dangerous due to its rapid progression, potentially leading to fulminant sepsis within hours. Extending vaccination to adolescents aims to reduce the overall burden of this severe infection.

Understanding the Meningococcal B Risk

The concern surrounding meningococcal B stems from its aggressive nature and the fact that a substantial portion of the adolescent population acts as carriers. This means they harbor the bacteria without showing symptoms, but can still transmit it to others. The AEP’s recommendation to extend vaccination to this age group is based on the understanding that targeting this reservoir can significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks and severe illness. Experts explain that the rapid evolution of the bacteria also contributes to the need for broader vaccination coverage.

The Importance of a Holistic Approach to Vaccination

Beyond these specific recommendations, pediatricians emphasize the need for a broader, more integrated approach to preventing infectious diseases. Dr. Luis Carlos Blesa Baviera, president of the AEP, advocates for a “One Health” perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This approach acknowledges that many emerging infections originate from interactions between these domains and that effective prevention requires collaboration across disciplines.

the AEP stresses that individual vaccination is only one piece of the puzzle. Vaccinating parents, caregivers, and other close contacts helps create a protective barrier around vulnerable individuals, particularly young infants and those with underlying health conditions. This highlights the importance of family-level immunity in safeguarding public health.

What’s Next for Spain’s Vaccination Program?

The AEP’s recommendations are now under consideration by relevant health authorities. The process of updating the national vaccination calendar typically involves a thorough evaluation of the scientific evidence, cost-effectiveness analyses, and public health impact assessments. The Ministry of Health will likely convene a panel of experts to review the AEP’s proposals and formulate official guidance. Ongoing surveillance of infection rates and vaccination coverage will be crucial in monitoring the effectiveness of any implemented changes. The AEP’s recommendations are a proactive step towards strengthening Spain’s defenses against these preventable diseases and protecting the health of its population.

Individuals with questions or concerns about vaccination are encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider or refer to official public health resources for the most up-to-date information.