The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised fresh concerns about immunization coverage in South-East Asia, stating that while the region has made remarkable progress over the decades, millions of children still do not have access to life-saving vaccines.
Vaccination is widely regarded as one of the most successful and cost-effective public health interventions in history. Over the past 50 years, vaccines have saved more than 154 million lives globally, including an estimated 38 million in the WHO South-East Asia Region alone.
The impact has been significant—immunization has contributed to a 22% reduction in infant mortality in the region. However, the job is far from complete.
“Reaching Everyone Is the Real Challenge”
According to Dr Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge of WHO South-East Asia, “Vaccines are one of the most powerful and cost-effective health investments we have. But their full impact depends on reaching everyone, everywhere.”
She emphasized that the challenge today is no longer just about vaccine development, but ensuring last-mile delivery—especially to underserved populations.
Millions of Children Still Left Behind
Recent data highlights the scale of the problem:
* In 2024, over 14 million infants globally received no vaccines at all
* Nearly 20 million missed at least one essential dose
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In South-East Asia alone, around 1.9 million children are classified as ‘zero-dose’, meaning they have not received a single vaccine. These numbers reflect persistent gaps in access to healthcare services, particularly among vulnerable and marginalized communities.
Bangladesh Measles Situation Signals Risk
WHO pointed to the ongoing measles situation in Bangladesh as a warning sign.
To contain the risk, authorities are scaling up a nationwide measles and rubella vaccination campaign targeting over 18 million children, including those in high-risk areas such as Cox’s Bazar.
This example underlines how even small immunisation gaps can lead to disease outbreaks.
Major Gains Over the Years
Despite ongoing challenges, the region has achieved significant milestones:
* Over 94% of children now receive three doses of DTP vaccine, compared to just 5% in the early years
* Elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus
* Sustained polio-free status since 2014 for Polio
* Continued progress towards measles and rubella elimination
Immunisation programmes have expanded significantly—from protecting against six diseases in the 1970s to covering 13 today.
Introduction of New Vaccines
In recent years, countries have introduced several new vaccines to strengthen protection, including:
* HPV vaccine (to prevent cervical cancer)
* Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
* Rotavirus vaccine
* Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine
These additions have broadened the scope of immunisation across age groups.
Region Emerges as Global Vaccine Hub
South-East Asia has also become a major global hub for vaccine production, supplying nearly half of the world’s vaccines. This plays a critical role in strengthening both regional and global health security.
Why Are Some Children Still Missing Out?
WHO notes that children who miss out on vaccines often belong to:
* Remote or hard-to-reach areas
* Urban informal settlements
* Border regions or migrant populations
Barriers such as distance, cost, lack of awareness, and documentation challenges continue to limit access.
What Needs to Be Done?
To close these gaps, WHO recommends:
* Data-driven and targeted strategies
* Strengthening last-mile delivery systems
* Designing services around community needs
The organization also highlights the critical role of healthcare workers, who remain the most trusted source of information and are key to building vaccine confidence.
Immunisation in a Changing World
With emerging challenges like climate change, rapid urbanisation, migration, and financial pressures, immunisation is becoming even more essential.
Vaccines not only prevent diseases but also:
* Strengthen preparedness for health emergencies
* Help combat antimicrobial resistance by reducing infections and antibiotic use
Expanding Vaccination Across All Ages
Looking ahead, WHO is calling for a life-course approach to immunisation, extending vaccination beyond childhood to include, adolescents, adults and older populations. This shift is essential to address evolving demographic and health needs.
On the occasion of World Immunization Week (April 24–30), WHO has delivered a clear message:
“Vaccines save lives. Ensuring they reach everyone is both achievable and essential.”
The focus now must shift from availability to accessibility, making sure that no one, no matter where they live, is left behind.