Belize Marks World Health Day with Call for Vaccination, Healthy Lifestyles, and Science-Based Health Action

Belize City, Belize, April 7, 2026 (PAHO) - Belize joins countries around the world in observing World Health Day 2026 with a renewed call to strengthen trust in science and collective action to protect public health. The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) highlights the importance of evidence-based policies and community engagement to address current and emerging health challenges. This year's global theme, "Together for Science," underscores the critical role that scientific knowledge plays in preventing disease, strengthening health systems, and responding effectively to current and emerging health threats.

Belize has achieved important public health milestones in recent decades through strong programs and sustained public health action. These efforts have contributed to regional achievements such as the elimination of measles, rubella, and congenital rubella syndrome in the Americas, as well as the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis in the country.

However, maintaining these achievements requires continued vigilance. Recent data show that the global coverage of the measles-containing vaccine has declined in recent years, falling below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. This reduction in coverage increases the risk of the re-emergence of diseases such as measles, highlighting the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage and strengthening public confidence in immunization, as vaccines are proven to be one of the most cost-effective interventions in public health.

At the same time, Belize continues to strengthen its response to the main noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Promoting healthy lifestyles, including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, reduction of tobacco and alcohol use, and mental health and psychosocial support, is essential to prevent these conditions and improve long-term health outcomes. In this context, ongoing efforts to implement Better Care for NCDs, strengthen mental health, tobacco, and alcohol control policies, and promote healthy nutritional practices represent important steps toward protecting public health and reducing some of the leading preventable causes of disease and premature death.

World Health Day 2026 also highlights the importance of the One Health approach, recognizing the close connections between human health, animal health, and the environment. Strengthening the scientific evidence and collaboration across sectors helps countries better prevent and respond to emerging threats, including zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and the health impacts of environmental change.

World Health Day serves as a reminder that protecting health requires collective responsibility. Governments, health professionals, communities, and individuals all play a role in promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting vaccination, and ensuring that decisions affecting health are guided by science. By standing with science and working together, Belize can continue advancing toward a healthier and more resilient future for all.