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Recent reductions in global health funding are contributing to a resurgence of diseases previously brought under control by vaccination efforts, according to a warning issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday.
In the so-called “meningitis belt” of Africa, which includes parts of sub-Saharan regions, successful mass vaccination campaigns had nearly eradicated meningitis A. Likewise, enhancements in routine immunization efforts and the establishment of emergency vaccine reserves have led to significant decreases in yellow fever occurrences and fatalities.
However, this hard-fought progress is now jeopardized. “Funding cuts to global health have put these hard-won gains in jeopardy,” cautioned Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General.
Outbreaks on the Rise
The number of measles cases globally surged to an estimated 10.3 million in 2023, reflecting a 20 percent increase since 2022.
In a statement that coincided with the launch of World Immunization Week, WHO, along with the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and allied organizations, indicated that this upward trend in measles cases is projected to persist through 2025.
Moreover, yellow fever is re-emerging. Following years of decline in Africa attributed to wider access to vaccines, outbreaks have already been reported across the continent in 2025. Cases have also emerged in the Americas.
Misinformation Threat
The challenges to vaccination initiatives are compounded by misinformation, growing populations, humanitarian emergencies, and decreasing funding.
This month, a review by WHO across 108 countries revealed that nearly half are facing moderate to severe disruptions to their vaccination campaigns, routine immunization practices, and vaccine supply chains due to diminishing donor contributions.
“The global funding crisis is severely limiting our ability to vaccinate over 15 million vulnerable children in fragile and conflict-affected countries against measles,” noted Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF.
Vaccines Offer High Returns
Vaccines are credited with saving approximately 4.2 million lives annually by providing protection against 14 different diseases, with nearly half of these lives saved in Africa.
Despite the proven benefits, diminishing investment poses a significant risk of previously controlled diseases resurfacing.
Health experts contend that immunization represents one of the most cost-effective health interventions. Each dollar invested in vaccines yields an estimated return of $54 in terms of improved health outcomes and enhanced economic productivity.
To tackle this impending crisis, UNICEF, WHO, and their allies are urging parents, the public, and political leaders to bolster support for immunization initiatives and advocate for sustained investment in vaccination and public health infrastructure.
Source
news.un.org