Childhood immunisation: Global rates remain below pre-pandemic levels

Global childhood immunisation rates stalled in 2023 and remain some way below pre-pandemic levels, latest figures show.1

Estimates of national immunisation rates from the World Health Organization and Unicef show that global coverage in 2023 against 14 major diseases has remained largely unchanged from the previous year. The agencies said that ongoing disruptions to healthcare services, logistical challenges, vaccine hesitancy, and inequities in access were all contributing to the lack of progress.

Catherine Russell, Unicef executive director, said, “The latest trends show that many countries continue to miss far too many children. Closing the immunisation gap requires a global effort, with governments, partners, and local leaders investing in primary healthcare and community …