Lagatar24 Desk
Global Decline in Infant Mortality
Over the past five decades, the infant mortality rate has fallen dramatically, dropping from 10% in 1974 to less than 3% today. A recent study published in The Lancet, led by Andrew Shattock, attributes much of this decline to global vaccination programs, which are estimated to have reduced infant mortality by 40%. Without vaccines, the rate would be significantly higher, according to the study.
Impact of Vaccinations Worldwide
Vaccines have been crucial in saving 150 million children’s lives globally over the last 50 years. Measles alone accounted for the saving of 94 million lives, contributing more than 60% of the reduction in deaths. Across various regions, the impact in 2024 has been notable:
- Africa: Over 50 million children saved.
- Southeast Asia: 38 million lives saved.
- Americas: 16 million lives saved.
- Europe: Over 7 million lives saved.
Progress in Southeast Asia
In Southeast Asia, vaccines saved 38.04 million lives in 2024 compared to 34.82 million in 2020. This reflects consistent improvements in immunisation efforts over the decades. However, challenges remain in expanding coverage to vulnerable populations.
India’s Immunisation Journey
India’s first vaccination efforts date back to 1802 with the introduction of the smallpox vaccine. Post-independence, immunisation initiatives expanded under the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), which was later revamped as the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) in 1985. The launch of Mission Indradhanush in 2014 further aimed to vaccinate all children and pregnant women, and in 2021, India undertook one of the world’s largest Covid-19 vaccination campaigns.
Global Vaccination Programmes
Vaccination rates before 1974 were minimal, with less than 5% of infants receiving immunisation against diseases such as diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus. The WHO’s Essential Programme on Immunisation, introduced that year, aimed to increase global vaccination rates. By 2000, around 60% of the world’s children were vaccinated. The establishment of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, in 2000 accelerated immunisation, resulting in 80% of infants receiving necessary vaccines today.
Challenges and Continued Efforts
Despite progress, diseases such as tuberculosis, measles, and meningitis continue to cause deaths. Tuberculosis alone accounts for over a million deaths annually. New vaccines, including those for malaria, offer hope, but sustained investment and government coordination are necessary to maintain progress.
Addressing Vaccine Scepticism
Vaccine scepticism remains an issue in certain parts of the world, fuelled by misinformation and concerns over vaccine safety. The anti-vaxxer movement, in particular, has spread misinformation linking vaccines to autism. Governments and medical organisations are working to address these concerns through education and public awareness campaigns.
The fight against preventable diseases continues, but significant strides have been made in reducing infant mortality, with vaccines playing a central role.
