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A Wake-Up Call for Global Immunization Coverage
In the latest health news, Saima Wazed, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia, has stressed the urgent need for an unwavering global commitment to ensure that every child has access to life-saving vaccines. As World Immunisation Week 2025 unfolds, Wazed’s call to action comes at a time when gaps in immunization coverage threaten decades of progress in public health.
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Immunisation for All: A Humanly Possible Goal
World Immunisation Week 2025 carries the powerful theme, “Immunisation for All is Humanly Possible.” This theme reflects a global commitment to reach every child, no matter how remote or marginalized their community may be. Saima Wazed emphasized that ensuring universal vaccine access is not just an aspiration — it is an achievable mission if there is consistent political will, community engagement, and resource allocation.
Wazed also pointed out that vaccines are among the most cost-effective health interventions in history, preventing 3.5 to 5 million deaths each year from diseases like diphtheria, measles, polio, and pertussis. However, she warned that millions of children, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, still miss out on essential immunizations.
South-East Asia’s Progress and Challenges
Highlighting her own region, Wazed acknowledged the significant progress made in countries like India, which launched the Mission Indradhanush initiative to drive up immunization rates. Since its launch in 2014, Mission Indradhanush has helped India inch closer to achieving 90% full immunization coverage for children and pregnant women, targeting diseases like measles, polio, tetanus, and hepatitis B.
Yet, challenges persist. Some communities remain hard to reach due to geographic barriers, conflict zones, or vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation. Wazed underlined the critical need for continuous efforts to bridge these gaps.
The Role of Vaccine Hesitancy and Access Disparities
One of the major obstacles, Wazed noted, is vaccine hesitancy — the delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccines despite the availability of vaccination services. This hesitancy has slowed down efforts not just in South-East Asia but globally. For example, countries like Pakistan, which are battling polio resurgence, face significant resistance due to deep-seated mistrust and security concerns.
To counter vaccine hesitancy, Wazed advocated for improved public communication strategies, stronger community trust, and active collaboration between governments, healthcare workers, and local leaders. She insisted that providing accurate information and addressing people’s concerns openly could greatly improve vaccine acceptance rates.
World Immunisation Week: A Critical Reminder
World Immunisation Week serves as a crucial reminder that vaccines are a human right and an essential part of healthcare for every individual, particularly vulnerable children. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the critical importance of full immunization and to urge action at all levels — from local communities to international organizations.
Saima Wazed’s message is clear: “We must ensure that no child is left behind.” Achieving this goal will require innovation, greater financial investment, stronger healthcare systems, and a firm, sustained commitment from global leaders and stakeholders.
Building a Healthier Future
As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on healthcare services, restoring and strengthening immunization programs is more important than ever. Wazed’s address during World Immunisation Week underscores the urgency of acting now to build a resilient, healthier future for the next generation.
The health news today is not just about challenges — it is about opportunities. With renewed global focus, partnerships, and community-driven efforts, the dream of universal immunization is within reach. Every child vaccinated is a step toward a healthier, safer, and more prosperous world for all.
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