With 15 out of every 100 children in the Americas only partially protected against vaccine-preventable diseases, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), issues a pressing call for countries in the region to intensify efforts in restoring routine vaccination coverage.
FACING THE CHALLENGES: DECLINING VACCINATION RATES
Dr. Barbosa highlights the concerning trend of declining vaccination coverages over the past decade. Factors contributing to this decline include a false sense of security regarding eliminated diseases, reduced prioritization of vaccination programs, and the surge in misinformation amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
URGENCY AMIDST RISKS: MEASLES RESURGENCE
Despite progress in regaining lost ground, Dr. Barbosa underscores the urgency of improving vaccination coverage, particularly against highly contagious diseases like measles. With global measles cases on the rise, the region faces heightened risks without adequate immunization.
CRITICAL GAP: HPV VACCINATION COVERAGE
Countries in the Americas struggle to achieve the 90% coverage rate necessary to protect girls ages 9 to 14 against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a crucial safeguard against cervical cancer. Dr. Barbosa emphasizes the significance of closing this gap to prevent unnecessary loss of life among women.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES: STRATEGIES FOR RECOVERY
To address these challenges, countries must allocate increased financial and technical resources to enhance vaccination services. Effective communication strategies are vital in combating vaccine hesitancy, while bolstered political commitment is essential for sustaining routine vaccination programs.
PAHO’S COMMITMENT: SUPPORT AND RESOURCES
Dr. Barbosa assures PAHO’s unwavering support in strengthening disease surveillance and increasing vaccination coverage across the region. The Revolving Fund for Access to Vaccines facilitates access to quality vaccines, while PAHO’s innovation and regional production platform fosters vaccine manufacturing to bolster accessibility and resilience.
A CALL TO ACTION: SAFEGUARDING HEALTH THROUGH IMMUNIZATION
Thanks to vaccination efforts, communities have enjoyed improved health and longevity, minimizing the threat of vaccine-preventable diseases. However, Dr. Barbosa emphasizes the imperative of sustained action, highlighting vaccines’ critical role in protecting against over 20 diseases and preserving public health.
UPHOLDING THE LEGACY OF IMMUNIZATION
In the face of evolving health challenges, maintaining robust vaccination coverage is paramount. Dr. Barbosa’s impassioned plea serves as a rallying cry for collective action, urging nations in the Americas to redouble their efforts in safeguarding public health through comprehensive immunization initiatives.