[COVID-19 and vaccination: a global disruption]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic led to global lockdowns and social distancing measures.
• Infant vaccination campaigns were suspended or slowed in many countries due to the pandemic.
• This disruption has potential indirect public health consequences, including increased mortality from preventable diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the indirect public health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunization programs.
• To discuss the challenges and public acceptance of a new vaccine against SARS-CoV-2.

Main Methods:

• Review of public health responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Analysis of the impact of pandemic-related disruptions on vaccination services.
• Assessment of factors influencing vaccine acceptance for SARS-CoV-2.

Main Results:

• Suspension of infant vaccination campaigns globally.
• Potential rise in mortality from diseases like measles and polio in developing nations.
• Growing skepticism towards a rapidly developed SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.

Conclusions:

• The indirect effects of COVID-19 on routine vaccinations pose a significant public health threat.
• Addressing vaccine hesitancy is crucial for the successful rollout of a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.
• Maintaining essential immunization services during pandemics is vital to prevent resurgence of other infectious diseases.