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[The expanded program of vaccination: 25 years tomorrow]
1Ecole du Service de santé des armées, BP 43, 69998 Lyon Armées, France.
Medecine Tropicale : Revue Du Corps De Sante Colonial
|October 5, 2001
Summary
The expanded program on immunization shows mixed results, with some diseases controlled but others, like diphtheria and tuberculosis, resurging. Continued commitment and funding are crucial for global vaccination success.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Context:
- The Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) has been active for 25 years.
- Initial vaccinations included diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, measles, and tuberculosis.
- The program expanded to include yellow fever, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the 25-year impact and current status of the Expanded Program on Immunization.
- To assess the success and challenges of various vaccine-preventable disease control efforts globally.
- To highlight the need for renewed commitment to immunization policies.
Summary:
- Diphtheria control has been reversed in Eastern Europe; neonatal tetanus is nearing elimination. Pertussis control remains elusive due to vaccine limitations.
- Poliomyelitis is eradicated in the Americas, with global eradication targeted for 2005. Tuberculosis cases have alarmingly increased worldwide.
- Measles eradication achieved in the Americas, with regional targets set for Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. Yellow fever and hepatitis B vaccination coverage is inadequate in endemic areas.
Impact:
- Mixed success in disease control necessitates addressing resurgent infections like diphtheria and rising tuberculosis rates.
- Global eradication goals for poliomyelitis and regional targets for measles require sustained effort.
- Inadequate implementation of yellow fever and hepatitis B vaccines, coupled with funding challenges, threatens overall immunization program effectiveness.