Immunizations in developing countries

The WHO Expanded Programme on immunization has greatly improved the prevention of 6 major diseases of infants in developing countries, but a number of other immunizations are left aside. They concern diseases which are either specific to tropical countries or common to both developed and developing countries. Preventive immunization programmes against these diseases are often non-existent and countries rely on "fire-fighting" immunization campaigns whenever an outbreak occurs. This deficiency is the result of logistic difficulties, most of which could be overcome. Recent progress in research will bring improved classical vaccines and new vaccines which are eagerly awaited. However, logistic problems in developing countries will have to be solved to make the best use of multiple antigens which will soon be at hand.