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100 Million Child Vaccine Doses Delivered Globally
24 Apr
Summary
- Over 100 million vaccine doses delivered to children since 2023.
- 12.3 million previously unvaccinated children received shots.
- Initiative aims to reach 21 million un- and under-immunised children.
Since 2023, a global effort has delivered more than 100 million vaccine doses to 18.3 million children, aiming to counteract pandemic-induced drops in childhood immunisation. Launched in 2023 during World Immunisation Week, "The Big Catch-Up" initiative focused on children aged 1 to 5 years across 36 countries and concluded in March of this year.
This drive significantly boosted vaccination rates, with approximately 12.3 million children receiving their first vaccines against diseases such as diphtheria and polio. Before this initiative, around 15 million children had not received a measles shot. The program is progressing towards its target of reaching at least 21 million children who were previously unvaccinated or under-immunised.
Despite successes, challenges persist as millions of infants still miss routine vaccinations annually, leaving them vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles, diphtheria, and polio. Recent sharp funding cuts to global health have impacted immunization services, raising concerns about reversing hard-won progress. About 14.5 million children missed basic vaccinations in 2023, with conflict-affected countries experiencing the most significant setbacks.
