Children are among the most vulnerable populations when exposed to the threat of various communicable diseases. Yet, diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles and polio, which are often referred to as ‘childhood diseases', can be easily prevented by the use of vaccines. Also, for other diseases affecting children, such as tuberculosis, hepatitis B, Hib, yellow fever or respiratory infections, safe and effective vaccines exist. Current vaccination efforts save three million lives every year, but vaccine preventable diseases continue to be a major cause of death in developing countries. More than 30 million children still miss out on vaccination each year, and 2 to 3 million die annually from these easily preventable diseases. |
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| Vaccine programmes |
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Global Alliance for
Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI)
This coalition works to increase immunization rates and improve vaccine access for children in developing countries.
Leishmaniasis Vaccine Initiative
A collaborative partnership to optimize the development of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics against leishmaniasis.
Pediatric Dengue Vaccine Initiative
Accelerating the development of a dengue vaccine that is appropriate, safe and accessible to poor children in endemic countries. |
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Global Polio Eradication Initiative
In January 2004 a new plan was unveiled to immunize 250 million children in the remaining polio-endemic countries.
Influenza Vaccine Supply International Task Force
This specialized group helps ensuring adequate capacity in the production and distribution of influenza vaccine.
Merck Vaccine Network - Africa
Funded by the Merck Company Foundation, this initiative is designed to contribute to improve the immuni-zation infrastructure in Africa.
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