A new global study reveals a concerning stagnation in childhood vaccination rates over the past two decades, with some countries even experiencing reversals. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the issue, leaving millions of children vulnerable to diseases like measles, tuberculosis, and polio. Cuts to international aid and vaccine hesitancy are contributing factors. Researchers urge a concerted effort to improve vaccine access and address misinformation, highlighting the significant decrease in measles vaccinations across nearly 100 countries and the millions of unvaccinated children globally, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.