Global Childhood Vaccines at Risk as Misinformation and Setbacks Grow
Over the past 50 years, childhood immunization programs have saved millions of young lives. A recent study published in The Lancet highlights that routine vaccines have helped prevent an estimated 154 million deaths globally, mostly among children under the age of five. This monumental public health achievement stems from the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Expanded Programme on Immunization, which has provided essential vaccines to over 4 billion children worldwide.
These vaccines have significantly reduced the spread of life-threatening diseases such as tuberculosis, measles, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Between 1980 and 2023, global efforts cut the number of “zero-dose” children—infants under 1 year old who haven’t received even the basic diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine—by 75%. The economic return is substantial as well; for every dollar spent on immunization, the return can be up to 44 times the investment.
Recent Slowdowns and the Growing Influence of Misinformation
Despite decades of progress, vaccination rates have started to decline in many regions. According to the study, from 2010 to 2019, 21 of 36 high-income countries experienced a drop in at least one type of routine childhood immunization. Moreover, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, reports that over 100 countries have seen setbacks in childhood vaccine coverage in recent years.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted health services, including immunization programs. In 2021, the number of zero-dose children reached a peak of 18.6 million. Although that number decreased to 15.7 million by 2023, the lingering effects of the pandemic continue to hinder global vaccine coverage.
In addition to the pandemic, several other factors have contributed to these setbacks, including armed conflicts, political instability, natural disasters, and forced migration. However, one of the most pressing issues is the rise of vaccine misinformation. The World Health Organization identified vaccine hesitancy and misinformation as a top global health threat back in 2019.
Policy Changes and Political Influence on Vaccination Campaigns
Vaccination campaigns may face even more challenges due to political shifts. In the United States, proposed cuts to the 2026 federal budget could defund key global vaccine initiatives. These changes include the closure of the CDC’s global immunization unit and the withdrawal of funding from Gavi. Such moves threaten programs that protect children against diseases like polio and measles.
Leadership changes have also sparked controversy. Vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr., appointed to head the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has publicly questioned the safety of childhood vaccines, despite medical consensus. His decisions, such as halting CDC vaccine advisory committee members and promoting alternatives to standard vaccines, have raised concerns among health professionals.
Globally, the consequences of slowing vaccine coverage are already being felt. The U.S. is experiencing a surge in measles cases—potentially reaching levels not seen since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. Across the European Union, measles cases have increased nearly tenfold in 2024 alone.
Most under-vaccinated children are in lower-income countries, especially in Nigeria, India, Indonesia, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Experts stress that reaching the WHO’s goal of 90% global vaccine coverage by 2030 will require sustained investment, tailored public health strategies, and stronger efforts to combat misinformation.
