WHO urges stronger immunization in Western Pacific
Summary
The WHO urges enhanced immunization efforts in the Western Pacific region to prevent a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases, highlighting that millions of children missed routine vaccines in 2024.
Key Points
- The WHO renewed its call for intensified immunization efforts across the Western Pacific region.
- Nearly 2.1 million children in the Western Pacific missed at least one vaccine dose in 2024.
- Vaccines have protected generations but the protection cannot be taken for granted, says WHO Regional Director Saia Ma’u Piukala.
- Strengthening immunization systems, improving outreach, and securing vaccine supply chains are critical to reversing the trend.
