Globally, outbreaks threaten immunization progress

Outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases are rising globally, threatening years of progress in immunization efforts, according to WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi. This is due to factors like misinformation, population growth, and funding cuts. Measles, meningitis, and yellow fever cases are increasing, with measles cases up 20% in 2023. Disruptions to vaccination campaigns and routine immunization are occurring in many countries, impacting millions of children and adults. The agencies are calling for increased political attention and investment to strengthen immunization programs. They highlight the importance of vaccines, which have saved millions of lives, and the need to address funding gaps.