Global childhood vaccination coverage stalled in 2023, leaving 2.7 million additional children unvaccinated and undervaccinated compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to data released today by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF.
The latest World Health Organization and UNICEF Estimates of National Immunization Coverage (WUENIC) highlight the need for continued efforts to catch up, recover and strengthen systems. More than half of unvaccinated children live in 31 countries with fragile, conflict-affected and vulnerable environments, where children are particularly vulnerable to preventable diseases due to disruption and lack of access to safety, nutrition and health services.
According to the findings, the number of children who received three doses of the diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP) vaccine in 2023 stopped at 84%. However, the number of children who did not receive a single dose of the vaccine increased, marking a concerning trend.
Measles vaccination rates have also stalled, leaving nearly 35 million children with no or only partial protection against the deadly disease. The new data highlight the urgent need to accelerate efforts to meet the Immunization Agenda 2030 targets for global immunization coverage to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.
While progress has been made in some regions with the introduction of new and underutilized vaccines, continued investment in primary health care, community workers, and public awareness is crucial to closing the immunization gap and ensuring every child is protected.
Closing the vaccination gap requires a global effort, with governments, partners, and local leaders investing in primary health care to strengthen health systems, protect vulnerable populations, and prevent unnecessary illness and death from preventable diseases.
As the world continues to grapple with ongoing health challenges, addressing the gaps in immunization coverage is essential to building a healthier, more resilient global community for the future.
