25-April-2024″ World Immunization Week celebrates a remarkable milestone – 50 years of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). This global initiative has been instrumental in saving countless lives and protecting children from devastating vaccine-preventable diseases.

“Thanks to vaccines, smallpox has been eradicated, and polio is on the brink of elimination.

Many once-feared diseases, including measles, cervical cancer, yellow fever, pneumonia, and diarrhea, are now easily preventable,” said World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, kicking off a virtual press conference to celebrate the momentous occasion.

“Today, 84% of the world’s children are now protected against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis with three vaccine doses, a powerful testament to global vaccination efforts.”

The new World Health Organization (WHO) report highlights the remarkable impact of vaccines in Africa. Over the past 50 years, an estimated 51.2 million lives have been saved thanks to immunization programs. This translates to an additional 60 years of life for each child saved.

This success is attributed to the WHO’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), launched in 1974.

This global initiative ensures all children have access to life-saving vaccines, regardless of where they live or their family’s background.

“Just 50 years ago, fewer than 5% of infants worldwide were vaccinated. This led WHO to launch EPI in 1974, inspired by smallpox eradication. Today, all countries have set up vaccination programs for diphtheria, measles, and other serious diseases, saving millions,” said Dr Tedros.

The Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) saved about 154 million lives since its launch in 1974. That’s more than 8,000 lives saved a day.

“Children born today are 40% more likely to survive their fifth birthday thanks to immunization,” Dr. Tedros said. “The future looks even brighter with new vaccines in development for diseases like COVID-19, malaria, and Ebola.

Beyond saving lives directly, EPI programs act as a cornerstone for healthcare delivery in remote areas, offering essential services like nutrition support alongside vaccinations Despite this progress, the fight for global immunization continues.”

“Immunization programs are also the bedrock of primary health care in some of the most remote locations. A child brought to a clinic for vaccination often receives other life-saving services, such as nutritional support, illness screenings, or bed nets. Over the past 50 years, EPI has achieved so much, but we cannot take these gains for granted.”

Dr. Tedros acknowledged that the COVID-19 pandemic “disrupted routine immunization programs globally”, and ongoing crises leave millions without access to vaccines.

Climate change and conflict are throwing a wrench in efforts to deliver essential health services like vaccinations and primary care, particularly in the world’s most impoverished regions. This disruption creates a breeding ground for outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, cholera, diphtheria, and polio. These outbreaks threaten to stall, halt, or even rewind the significant progress we’ve made toward global health security.

“As of 2023, an estimated 14 million children around the world have not received a single vaccine, and tragically, infectious diseases are starting to flourish in these environments,” she said.

Mitchell added “We must protect the immense progress made in the past 50 years of global health while forging ahead towards even greater achievements. By steadfastly investing in immunization programs, we have the power to create a future where everyone is shielded from vaccine-preventable diseases and can live long and healthy lives.”

“As you’re aware, we’re currently celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) with a year-long campaign called “Humanly Possible.” This initiative, led by WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, the Gates Foundation, and numerous partners, reflects on the remarkable impact of vaccines highlighted today.”

The “Humanly Possible” campaign goes beyond celebrating past achievements. It’s a powerful call to action, urging us to envision what the next 50 years hold with sustained commitment to immunization. We’re on the cusp of eradicating polio, eliminating cervical cancer, and making health systems more resilient against climate-sensitive diseases like typhoid and cholera.  However, securing a healthier future for generations to come hinges on continued investment in immunization and a renewed focus on strengthening global vaccination programs.

“We’re on the brink of eradicating polio, eliminating cervical cancer, and future-proofing health systems against diseases that are climate-sensitive like typhoid and cholera,” she continued. “But to secure the next chapter for future generations, we must continue investing in immunization and recommit to strengthening vaccine programs around the world.”

“As I reflect on the “Humanly Possible” initiative, I’m deeply grateful for the tireless efforts of health workers around the globe who dedicate themselves to vaccinating every child, everywhere. Last year, I met Aisha, a young woman in northern Nigeria, who went above and beyond to ensure all village children received the polio vaccine. Her dedication is truly inspiring.

On that same visit, I also encountered a farmer who left his fields to bring his four children for measles vaccinations. He understood the importance of protecting his family’s health. These are just two examples of the countless healthcare heroes who make life-saving vaccines a reality.”

Mitchell highlighted the importance of celebrating past successes, future potential, and the frontline health workers who make it all possible.  “By working together, we can save millions more lives, advance equity, and create a much healthier and more prosperous world,” said Mitchell.