The story so far
Vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and meningitis are resurging.
This is due to funding cuts, misinformation, and disrupted immunisation programs.
WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi urge global leaders to prioritise and invest in immunisation.
What set alarm bells ringing?
WHO survey in 108 countries showed half face disruptions in vaccination and supplies.
14.5 million children missed all routine vaccines in 2023 — highest in years.
Conflict-affected regions see the worst access to vaccines.
Even developed countries like the U.S. are seeing rising measles outbreaks.
Global funding cuts threaten vaccination efforts, especially in vulnerable areas.
Why is vaccination important?
Vaccination gives a $54 return for every dollar invested.
Saved 154 million lives in 50 years; measles vaccine alone saved 60%.
In India, Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) targets 26 million babies and 34 million pregnant women annually.
India eliminated polio (2014) and maternal-neonatal tetanus (2015).
Still, 1 in 4 Indian children misses full immunisation.
What is the way forward?
WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi call for renewed political and public support.
Countries urged to uphold Immunisation Agenda 2030 goals.
Gavi aims to raise $9 billion in June 2025 to protect 500 million children and save 8 million lives by 2030.
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