GENEVA/NEW YORK, 24 April 2025 – Immunization efforts are under threat as misinformation, humanitarian crises, and funding cuts undermine decades of progress, leaving millions vulnerable to preventable diseases, warn WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi during World Immunization Week (24-30 April).
Rising outbreaks of measles, meningitis, and yellow fever, along with the potential resurgence of diseases like diphtheria, highlight the urgent need for sustained investment in vaccination programs. These agencies stress that political commitment and funding are critical to safeguarding the 150 million lives saved by vaccines over the past 50 years.
Funding Cuts Endanger Vulnerable Children
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, warns that global health budget reductions threaten hard-won gains: “Outbreaks of preventable diseases are increasing, risking lives and straining economies. Vaccines remain one of the most cost-effective health interventions.”
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell highlights the crisis in fragile states: “Funding shortages leave over 15 million children in conflict-affected regions unprotected against measles. Disruptions in immunization services mirror setbacks seen during COVID-19—we cannot afford to lose progress.”
Progress Under Threat
Despite challenges, joint efforts by WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi have expanded vaccine access:
– Meningitis A has been eliminated in Africa’s meningitis belt.
– Yellow fever deaths have declined, but recent outbreaks reveal gaps in coverage.
– HPV vaccine coverage in Africa nearly doubled (21% to 40%) from 2020–2023, advancing cervical cancer elimination.
– Malaria vaccines have been introduced in 20 African countries, potentially saving 500,000 lives by 2035.
However, low routine vaccination rates and stalled campaigns risk reversals. The “Big Catch-Up” initiative, launched in 2023 to address pandemic-era missed vaccinations, requires continued investment.
A Call to Action
The agencies urge governments, donors, and the public to:
1. Honor commitments to the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030).
2. Invest in vaccines, which yield a $54 return for every $1 spent.
3. Support Gavi’s June 2025 pledging summit, aiming to raise $9 billion to protect 500 million children by 2030.
“Preventable diseases threaten global health security,” says Dr. Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi. “Full funding is essential to strengthen vaccine stockpiles and expand coverage—failure to act will cost lives.”
Immunization remains a lifesaving cornerstone of primary healthcare, linking families to nutrition, antenatal care, and disease prevention. The time to act is now.
