The World Health Organisation has said global immunisation efforts have saved millions of lives over the past five years, even as key targets under its Immunisation Agenda 2030 remain off track.
A new progress report released at the midpoint of the global initiative highlights both achievements and ongoing challenges in expanding access to life-saving vaccines worldwide.
According to the report, despite disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical instability, climate change, and funding constraints, vaccination programmes have continued to prevent millions of deaths. However, gaps persist in routine immunisation coverage, equitable access, and outbreak prevention across many countries.
In response, the WHO is calling for renewed global commitment, urging countries to strengthen national immunisation systems, integrate vaccine delivery into primary healthcare, and prioritise funding and policy support.
Meanwhile, a joint initiative involving the WHO, UNICEF, and GAVI—known as “The Big Catch-up”—has made notable progress. Launched in 2023 to address declines in vaccination caused by the pandemic, the campaign has reached an estimated 18.3 million children aged one to five across 36 countries.
The initiative has also delivered 23 million doses of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) to children who were previously unvaccinated or under-vaccinated, a critical step toward global polio eradication. It is projected to meet its target of vaccinating at least 21 million children.
Health experts warn that without sustained effort, the gains made could be reversed, especially in regions with fragile healthcare systems. The report underscores the urgent need for coordinated global action to close immunisation gaps and protect vulnerable populations.
As the world moves toward 2030, stakeholders say stronger collaboration and investment will be key to ensuring that no child is left behind in accessing essential vaccines.