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Africa risks setback in fight against preventable diseases — WHO

3 hours ago
by newswatchtv

The World Health Organization (WHO) says vaccines save about 1.8 million lives in Africa every year. However, it warned that around 6.7 million children on the continent have never received any routine vaccine.

This information was shared during African Vaccination Week 2026, which highlights the importance of immunisation for people of all ages.

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The WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, said vaccines protect not just children, but also teenagers, adults, and the elderly. He described immunisation as a lifelong investment in health.

Why vaccination matters

Vaccines help prevent serious diseases and save lives. Since 2000, about 500 million children in Africa have been protected through routine immunisation.

Many countries are improving vaccine delivery by using:

Digital health records

Solar-powered storage systems

Community outreach programmes

Also, malaria vaccines have now been introduced in 25 African countries.

Progress made

Some countries have achieved major success. In 2025, Cabo Verde, Mauritius, and Seychelles eliminated measles and rubella.

Efforts against polio have also been strong:

About 1.57 million deaths have been prevented since 1988

Over 20 million cases of paralysis have been avoided

Nearly 200 million children were vaccinated in high-risk areas last year

Through a programme called “Big Catch-Up,” about 8.75 million children who missed vaccines have now received them.

Ongoing challenges

Despite progress, many children are still not fully protected:

6.7 million children have never received any vaccine

9.5 million more are only partially vaccinated

These children often live in conflict areas or remote communities with poor access to healthcare.

The WHO warned that diseases like measles, diphtheria, and polio could spread again if vaccination efforts slow down.

Funding concerns

The WHO said African countries need to invest more in immunisation, especially as foreign funding becomes uncertain.

It noted that vaccines are very cost-effective. For every dollar spent on childhood immunisation, about $44 is gained in economic benefits.

Call for action

The WHO is urging governments, partners, and communities to work together to ensure everyone has access to vaccines, no matter where they live.

Mr Janabi stressed that immunisation should remain a top priority so that people of all ages can stay protected.

 

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