In 2023, despite facing multiple health-related crises, humanity achieved significant success in combating infectious diseases through collaborative efforts. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the World Health Organization (WHO), celebrated last April, where a unified approach to health was emphasized.
According to Kenya New Agency, a major milestone was reached with the declaration of the end of the COVID-19 global health emergency on May 5, 2023. This achievement was made possible through the innovation of vaccine researchers, the dedication of vaccine delivery programs worldwide, political commitment from government leaders, and the tireless efforts of healthcare workers.
WHO, along with its key partners, focused on reversing the declines in childhood vaccination caused by the pandemic, aligning with the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) goals. Kate O’Brien, WHO’s Director of the Department of Immunization, Vaccines, and Biologicals, expressed optimism about reaching a future where no child dies from a vaccine-preventable disease.
One of the year’s highlights was the progress in the Malaria Vaccine Initiative Programme (MVIP), which is set for completion in December 2023. MVIP’s pilot introductions in Kenya, Malawi, and Ghana have shown a 13% reduction in early childhood deaths and hospitalized severe malaria cases, with high demand for the malaria vaccine. O’Brien praised MVIP as a model of public-private partnership and a flagship WHO program, implemented with significant international and local contributions.
Further achievements in vaccine development include the dengue vaccine ‘Qdenga,’ the Men5CV vaccine against meningitis, and substantial progress in HPV vaccination for cervical cancer prevention. The adoption of a single-dose HPV vaccine recommendation by 30 additional countries is a significant step towards the 2030 goal of global HPV vaccine availability.
However, the world recognizes the need for ongoing efforts to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Under the initiative ‘The Big Catch-Up,’ countries are working to restore childhood routine vaccination programs to their full capacity.
O’Brien highlighted the critical role of sustained investments in immunization and equitable access to vaccines in continuing these successes. She expressed gratitude for the global dedication to vaccine development and deployment, which has led to new vaccines and improved delivery mechanisms, benefiting even the most marginalized communities.
Looking ahead to January 2024, WHO will present the second Progress Report on the IA2030 to its Executive Board. The focus remains on advocating for global vaccine availability and accessibility, striving for advancements in immunization coverage, equity, and innovation.
The Director emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing to overcome remaining challenges and ensure no one is left behind. The year 2024 is seen not only as a time to reflect on past achievements but also to set ambitious future goals. The spirit of progress and collaboration continues to drive global health efforts, with immunization remaining a cornerstone of these initiatives.