Geneva, 24 April 2015 −A report entitled Innovation for a healthier world – how the research-based vaccine manufacturers are contributing to the Decade of Vaccines Global Vaccine Action Plan (GVAP) shows how the pharmaceutical industry is bringing innovation to close the immunization gap while stressing the importance of reaching the 20% of children who are left unimmunized.

On the occasion of World Immunization Week, the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) stands committed to the Decade of Vaccines Global Vaccine Action Plan (GVAP) and its key goals, and takes this opportunity to provide an overview of the collective effort and contribution of the research-based vaccine manufacturers to the GVAP.

The 2015 report highlights:

· Innovation as a key aspect of the research-based vaccine manufacturers’ contribution to the GVAP, including investments beyond the traditional research and development model.

· The “last mile” challenges related to reaching every child: what is needed in that final step to reach every child, adolescent or adult that needs to be immunized.

· The importance of understanding the root cause of coverage gaps and how to overcome the communications challenges. Although many countries have made immunization a priority, we must do more to serve the most destitute populations.

Mr Eduardo Pisani, Director General of the IFPMA said:

“We are fully committed to the advancement and adoption of new vaccines and technologies throughout the world. In addition to our internal efforts, our collaborations with academic institutions, international groups, and non-governmental organizations have allowed us to accelerate life-saving vaccine development and deliveries in ways we never thought possible. Our ultimate goal is to continue this spirit of collaboration and innovation for generations to come, in order to close the immunization gap in every possible way.”

IFPMA research-based companies and vaccines manufacturers call upon all relevant partners and countries to align their commitments with the identified gaps and achieve sustainable availability and access to vaccines for all people, regardless of where they live.

About IFPMA

The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) represents over 90 innovative pharmaceutical companies and associations around the world. Our industry’s almost three million employees discover, develop, and deliver medicines and vaccines that advance global health. Based in Geneva, IFPMA has official relations with the United Nations and contributes industry expertise to help the global health community improve the lives of people everywhere. For more information, visit ifpma.org.

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Media Contact

Elliot Dunster e.dunster@ifpma.org