World Immunization Week 2025, observed from April 24 to 30, underscores the significant strides made in global vaccination efforts, particularly in the WHO South-East Asia Region. While celebrating the saving of over 154 million lives since 1974, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the pressing need to address gaps in immunization coverage. In 2023, approximately 2.7 million children in the region were entirely unvaccinated, with an additional 650,000 receiving incomplete immunization. WHO calls for intensified actions to ensure equitable vaccine access and to eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases, aiming for universal immunization by 2030.
Global Vaccination Achievements: A 50-Year Milestone
Since the inception of the Expanded Programme on Immunization in 1974, vaccines have become a cornerstone of public health, preventing over 30 life-threatening diseases. The WHO reports that immunization efforts have saved at least 154 million lives globally, equating to six lives every minute for five decades. Notably, the measles vaccine alone accounts for 60% of these lives saved. Vaccination has also contributed to a 40% reduction in infant mortality rates, with more children surviving their first year of life than ever before.
Challenges in the WHO South-East Asia Region
Despite these global successes, the WHO South-East Asia Region faces significant challenges in achieving universal immunization. In 2023, approximately 2.7 million children in the region did not receive any vaccines, and an additional 650,000 were partially vaccinated. This underlines the need for targeted interventions to reach these underserved populations. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these issues, disrupting immunization services and leading to a decline in coverage rates.
Strategic Responses and Future Goals
In response to these challenges, WHO has called for accelerated and focused efforts to identify and immunize unvaccinated and under-vaccinated children. This includes tailored approaches at sub-national levels and community engagement to address local barriers to immunization. The region has set new targets to eliminate measles and rubella by 2026, building on previous successes in polio and maternal and neonatal tetanus elimination.
World Immunization Week 2025 carries the theme "Immunization for All is Humanly Possible," emphasizing the feasibility of achieving universal immunization. WHO urges governments, health organizations, and communities to collaborate in strengthening health systems, addressing vaccine hesitancy, enhancing disease surveillance, and ensuring sustainable financing for immunization programs. The goal is to protect all individuals, regardless of age or location, from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the WHO South-East Asia Region strives to meet its immunization targets, the collective efforts of all stakeholders are crucial. By investing in immunization programs and addressing existing challenges, the region can build on past successes and work towards a healthier future for all its populations. The commitment to "Immunization for All" remains a testament to the shared responsibility in safeguarding public health.
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