Celebrating 50 Years of Vaccination: Marking World Immunization Week and Bridging Equity Gaps

We invite distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and members of the media to our press conference to mark World Immunization Week. This year’s event coincides with an exciting milestone – 50 years of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). When launched in 1974, this WHO initiative aimed to protect children against six diseases. Today, EPI offers protection against 13 vaccine-preventable diseases, reflecting its tremendous progress.

In the Eastern Mediterranean Region alone, more than 25 million lives have been saved thanks to vaccines. Vaccination has life-saving benefits that extend beyond childhood. Many countries have introduced newer vaccines that protect against pneumonia, diarrhea, and even certain cancers. Millions of people across the Region have been protected by COVID-19 vaccines due to the unwavering partnership of immunization partners like UNICEF and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

While we celebrate these achievements as a source of immense pride, equitable access to immunization remains a key challenge. We must ensure that every child receives their doses by reaching out to communities affected by conflict or displacement and strengthening healthcare systems. Moreover, we need to add new vaccines to national immunization schedules for continued protection throughout life.

This World Immunization Week is an opportunity for us to reaffirm our commitment to immunization. It is humanly possible to protect everyone from disease and create a healthier future for all. Joining us today are Marc Rubin, Deputy Regional Director of the UNICEF Middle East and North Africa Regional Office, and Thabani Maphosa, Managing Director of Country Programmes at Gavi Secretariat. Let’s work together towards bridging the gap in equitable access to immunization and building a future where everyone is shielded by the power of vaccines! Thank you!