World Immunization Week 2023
 

THE BIG CATCH-UP

For more than two centuries, vaccines have helped keep people healthy—from the very first vaccine developed to protect against smallpox to COVID-19 vaccines. Since then, families and communities have entrusted vaccines to protect their loved ones. But the value of vaccines is measured by more than the number of doses given.

Each April, World Immunization Week brings together people from around the world to highlight the importance of vaccines and how they protect people of all ages against many diseases, giving us the opportunity to pursue a life well-lived. This year’s campaign comes at a critical turning point for immunization. After over two years of immunization backsliding caused by COVID-19 pandemic disruptions, we must catch-up, restore and strengthen immunization services to reach the millions of people missing out on the life-saving benefits of vaccines and stop outbreaks from accelerating.  

In recognition of this historic moment for immunization, World Immunization Week 2023 will mark the beginning of a year-long campaign with the theme “The Big Catch-up,” representing a global push to vaccinate millions of children and return to pre-pandemic vaccination levels.  

World Immunization Week is supported by the World Health Organization and a wide range of partners, including Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and many more. Visit WHO’s World Immunization Week campaign page to learn more.

 
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WHY THE BIG CATCH-UP?

 

Over 25 million children missed at least one vaccination in 2021 alone.

Vaccines protect against more than 20 diseases like measles, diphtheria, HPV and polio. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, so rapidly reaching the millions who have missed out is a high priority. Every child should be afforded access to essential vaccinations.

We need action everywhere, but especially in the 20 low-and middle-income countries where over three-quarters of children who missed vaccinations live.

The Big Catch-Up is a global push to vaccinate millions of children and surpass pre-pandemic vaccination levels. It will support countries to strengthen routine immunization systems and conduct necessary catch-up campaigns. Countries are already making progress to fill the immunity gaps widened by the pandemic and get back on track, but more data and action are needed.

 

Vaccination levels decreased in over 100 countries, leading to rising outbreaks of measles, diphtheria, polio and yellow fever.

Many countries showed, with commitment and efforts, that progress can be restored to pre-pandemic levels.

However, unless leaders rapidly direct attention and resources at essential immunization services, there will be even more outbreaks, with direct consequences for children’s survival.

Countries and global partners must work in collaboration with local communities, health forces and leaders to strengthen services and build trust within communities prior to outbreaks beginning.

 

We need to turnaround immunization progress and ensure stronger primary health care services for the longevity and health of our future generations.

Significant progress in immunization was lost in just 3 years, with life-long repercussions for millions of children and their communities.

The pandemic placed unprecedented strain on health systems, including the delivery of essential immunization programs. Whilst many countries have already made great strides to catch-up the children and adolescents, the task that lies ahead of us is worth undertaking with all our resources, as the life of every child is valuable and worth protecting.

Intensifying focus on immunization in 2023 will protect children and adolescents from preventable diseases, allowing them to have healthier lives and strengthen health systems.

By highlighting innovations and previous country commitments, this global push will support countries to reach every child with essential vaccines.