Millions of children worldwide are at risk of lethal diseases due to stalled vaccine coverage amid rising health inequalities and misinformation. A study published in the Lancet found that progress in rolling out vaccines has stalled or reversed in many countries since 2010, leaving millions vulnerable to preventable diseases.
The study analyzed data from over 1,000 sources and found that measles vaccination rates have fallen in 100 countries, while coverage for at least one dose against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, measles, polio, or tuberculosis has declined in 21 high-income countries. The reversal is attributed to the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as persistent global inequalities and vaccine misinformation.
“Despite monumental efforts over the past 50 years, progress has been far from universal,” said Dr. Jonathan Mosser of the University of Washington. “Large numbers of children remain under- and un-vaccinated.” The study highlights the critical need for targeted improvements to ensure all children can benefit from lifesaving immunizations.
The findings warn that global immunization targets for 2030 will not be met without urgent action. Vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks pose a growing global risk, with increasing numbers of wild-type polio cases reported in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Measles infections recorded in Europe nearly increased tenfold in 2024, surpassing the total number of cases in 2024.
The study’s authors call for concerted efforts to tackle vaccine misinformation and hesitancy, as well as improving public confidence in vaccination programs. “Vaccination remains one of our most powerful tools for protecting child health, but its continued success depends on sustained investment, equity, and public trust,” said Dr. Emily Haeuser of the University of Washington.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jun/24/children-global-vaccine-rates-fall-study-finds