Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Vaccines have saved more than 150 million lives in the past 50 years, the World Health Organization says, warning that global immunisation efforts remain under threat.
Marking World Immunisation Week, the agency highlights the life-saving impact of vaccines against diseases including measles, polio, diphtheria and malaria.
“Vaccines protect individuals and entire communities,” WHO says.
Despite progress, the agency warns that most global immunisation targets are off track due to funding gaps, conflict, climate disruption and weak healthcare systems.
Partners including UNICEF and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance report that the “Big Catch-Up” campaign has reached 18.3 million children across 36 countries.
The initiative delivers millions of doses, including 23 million polio vaccines, targeting zero-dose and underserved populations.
WHO Nigeria Representative Walter Mulombo reinforces vaccine safety:
“Vaccines undergo rigorous evaluation before approval.”
Experts urge governments to strengthen routine immunisation, integrate services into primary healthcare and prioritise equitable access.
The agency stresses that without urgent action, millions of children will remain vulnerable to preventable diseases.
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