Millions of lives are saved every year because of vaccines. The virtual disappearance of diseases that once terrorized populations and communities leads some to forget that this fragile peace depends upon continued universal vaccination.

However, in many poor countries the fear remains. Every year, 27 million infants are not vaccinated against the most common childhood diseases. As a result, between two and three million children will die annually from easily preventable diseases and many more will fall sick, missing school and becoming part of the vicious cycle that links poor health to continued poverty in adulthood.

Childhood immunization is the best value in health care, providing tremendous benefit at very low cost. A child can be immunized fully for only USD $30. In addition to their effectiveness and relatively low cost, immunizations are available and easily administered. Vaccines already exist for many of the diseases that drive children and their families into poverty such as measles, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, pneumoccocus, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type B, and yellow fever.

Routine immunization is a cornerstone of basic healthcare and an essential first step on the path to development. Increasing access to immunization is a proven and cost-effective way to safeguard the health of children and families. And the benefits of immunization reach far beyond these children and families and help to create healthier and more prosperous communities and countries.

View chart showing annual deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases