A new study by the Burnet Institute has found that global vaccine stockpiles have prevented over 5.8 million cases and 327,000 deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases like cholera, Ebola, and measles since 2000.
The research highlights the importance of having an insurance policy against major outbreaks, particularly in countries where routine vaccination coverage is declining due to funding cuts. The study considered 210 outbreaks across five diseases and found that outbreak response immunisation programs supported by Gavi saved nearly US$32 billion.
For diseases with established vaccine programs, maintaining high levels of population immunity is crucial for preventing large outbreaks. However, when an outbreak occurs, a rapid vaccine response can provide the greatest protective impact, particularly if it happens quickly. The study’s findings emphasize the value of global vaccine stockpiles as a means to mitigate the impact of major outbreaks.
The research also explored the role of vaccine stockpiles in controlling outbreaks before they become disruptive. By having a sufficient stockpile, countries can prevent widespread transmission and reduce the need for costly interventions such as travel alerts or public health measures. The study’s authors believe that global vaccine stockpiles are essential for preventing major outbreaks from having significant social and economic consequences.
The Burnet Institute’s research was commissioned to inform Gavi’s planning and investment in its emergency global vaccine stockpiles, highlighting the need for countries to prioritize their vaccination programs and invest in these critical assets.
Source: https://www.scimex.org/newsfeed/global-vaccine-stockpiles-prevented-more-than-5-8-million-cases