WHO Highlights Vaccine Importance During Immunization Week

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reiterated the critical role of vaccines in saving lives as World Immunization Week commences from April 24 to April 30. Over the past 50 years, vaccines have reportedly saved 150 million lives.

WHO's statement highlights the importance of immunization against diseases such as measles, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, and rotavirus. The organization, alongside partners like UNICEF and Gavi, aims to address the significant decline in vaccination rates, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left an estimated 18.3 million children unvaccinated across 36 countries.

The 2023 campaign will provide 23 million doses of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and aims to vaccinate at least 21 million children by October 2024. Dr.

Walter Mulombo affirmed the safety and efficacy of vaccines, emphasizing the need for renewed commitment to strengthen national programs and integrate primary healthcare.