A groundbreaking study conducted by The Lancet has revealed the significant impact that global immunization efforts have had on saving lives over the past 50 years. According to the study, an estimated 154 million lives have been saved, with the majority of those being infants.
Measles vaccination was found to have the most substantial impact on reducing infant mortality, accounting for 60% of the lives saved due to immunization. The study, led by the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the crucial role that vaccines play in preventing diseases and saving lives.
For every life saved through immunization, an average of 66 years of full health were gained, totaling an impressive 10.2 billion full health years over the past five decades. The study also emphasizes the importance of continuing to protect immunization progress in every country and reaching the 67 million children who missed out on vaccines during the pandemic years.
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has played a vital role in expanding the impact of immunization programs and increasing coverage, providing vaccines against 20 infectious diseases. However, the study only covers the health impact of vaccination against 14 diseases, highlighting the need for continued investment in vaccine development and distribution.
In response to these findings, the “Humanly Possible” campaign has been launched by WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to advocate for vaccines and support immunization programs worldwide. The study showcases the remarkable progress made in saving lives through vaccination efforts and stresses the importance of continuing to invest in immunization to ensure a healthy future for all.
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