IMMUNIZATION AND VACCINE DEVELOPMENT: Progress towards High and Equitable Immunization Coverage in the Africa Region

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Vaccinology
• Global Health

Background:

• The WHO African Region faces challenges in controlling vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Immunization is crucial for public health and achieving development goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an update on immunization and vaccine development in the African Region.
• To highlight progress in controlling vaccine-preventable diseases.

Main Methods:

• Review of national immunization program data.
• Analysis of WHO-UNICEF Estimates for Immunization Coverage (WUENIC) data from 2012-2016.

Main Results:

• Successful development and introduction of new vaccines in the region.
• Low vaccine uptake despite new introductions, hindering equitable immunization coverage.
• Barriers include insufficient government commitment and weak community engagement.

Conclusions:

• Universal immunization coverage is essential for controlling and eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Prioritizing universal immunization access is critical for health and development in Africa.