Given Vaccines Beat’s growing global audience, we are delighted to introduce ImmPulse, our new monthly polls section designed to capture the perspectives of the multidisciplinary immunization community worldwide. Through timely questions on science, policy, ethics, and access, ImmPulse aims to explore diverse viewpoints, highlight shared challenges, and gain insights into the realities shaping immunization across regions. Join the conversation… because your voice matters!
In our “Coffee with an Expert” section, we are extremely honored to have had the chance yet again to interview Professor Stanley Plotkin, the legend behind vaccines, and indeed the top leader in vaccinology nowadays. He is Emeritus Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and Adjunct Professor at Johns Hopkins University, and the longtime editor of Plotkin’s Vaccines, one of the world’s most authoritative references in vaccinology. During our engaging conversation, Prof. Plotkin shared his invaluable insights into the evolution of vaccinology, emphasizing the critical importance of mucosal immunity in preventing infection and transmission. He also explored emerging vaccine technologies, the role of correlates of protection in vaccine development, and the scientific advances shaping the future of immunization. Drawing on decades of extraordinary experience, he offered a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities defining the next generation of vaccines.
In our Editor’s Corner, “Vaccinating Animals, Protecting Humanity and the Planet: A One Health Imperative,” we highlight the vital role of animal vaccination in preventing zoonotic diseases, reducing antimicrobial resistance, strengthening food security, and protecting planetary health. Animal immunization is not only a veterinary priority but also an essential investment in human health and pandemic preparedness.
In our Best Practice section, “Catch-Up Vaccination: What to Do When the Schedule Is Interrupted,” we highlight practical, evidence-based strategies to address missed or delayed vaccinations, restore protection, and ensure timely immunization across all age groups.
In our Guest Contributor section, Dr. Timothy Chege Kuria, PhD, a Kenyan scientist and Postdoctoral Research Scientist at Columbia University in New York, USA, addresses one of Africa’s most pressing public health challenges in his article, “Africa’s Vaccine Future: Population Growth, Infectious Disease Burden, and the Clinical Trial Gap.” He provides an insightful analysis of the complex interplay between rapid population growth, the persistent burden of infectious diseases, and the critical need to expand clinical trial capacity across the continent to advance vaccine research, development, and equitable access.
As always, this issue also features carefully curated summaries of the Latest Scientific Publications, together with the most relevant and timely News and Alerts from the world of vaccines and infectious diseases.
We hope you find this October 2026 Issue both informative and engaging. We look forward to continuing our shared commitment to advancing immunization, strengthening public health, and contributing to a healthier and more resilient world.
Sincerely,
Enrique Chacon-Cruz, M.D., MSc
Felicitas Colombo, MPA
Chief Editors, Vaccines Beat
