Context:
A recent paper published in The Lancet Global Health titled “Estimating the Health Effects of Covid-19-Related Immunization Disruptions in 112 Countries During 2020–30: A Modelling Study” has highlighted a concerning trend. The study reveals that global immunization rates have declined significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic. This decline has led to an increase in disease burden and heightened the risk of outbreaks in various countries. The findings underscore the urgent need for concerted efforts to address immunization disruptions and mitigate their long-term health impacts.
Relevance:
GS II: Health
Dimensions of the Article:
- Impact of Covid-19 on Global Immunisation
- Recommendations for Addressing Immunisation Challenges
Impact of Covid-19 on Global Immunisation
Global Decline in Immunisation:
- The Covid-19 pandemic caused a decrease in global immunisation coverage.
- This decline led to increased disease burden and outbreak risks in many countries.
Mortality Estimates Due to Disrupted Vaccinations:
- Disruptions to vaccinations for Measles, Rubella, HPV, Hepatitis B, meningitis A, and yellow fever could cause approximately 49,119 additional deaths from 2020 to 2030.
- Measles was identified as the primary contributor to this rise in mortality.
Long-term Impact on Mortality:
- Between 2020 and 2030, disruptions in vaccination coverage for all 14 pathogens might result in a 2.66% reduction in the long-term effect.
- This translates to fewer deaths prevented, decreasing from 37,378,194 to 36,410,559.
Importance of Catch-up Vaccines
Immediate Increase in Disease Burden:
- Diseases like measles and yellow fever saw a surge in burden after the pandemic.
Effectiveness of Catch-up Activities:
- Catch-up vaccines proved effective in preventing excess deaths.
- They have the potential to avert about 79% of excess deaths related to measles, rubella, HPV, hepatitis B, and yellow fever.
Specific Vaccine Coverage Issues
Impact on DTP Vaccines:
- The pandemic affected the coverage of Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP) vaccines.
- Globally, an additional 6 million children missed out on DTP vaccinations in 2021.
Resurgence of Measles Cases:
- Measles cases re-emerged in several countries, including previously eradicated regions like the UK and the US.
- In 2021, around 61 million measles vaccine doses were postponed or missed due to Covid-19-related delays in 18 countries.
- In 2022, global measles cases and deaths increased compared to 2021, with a significant number of children missing their vaccine doses in countries like Nigeria, Pakistan, and India.
Recommendations for Addressing Immunisation Challenges
Implementing Catch-up Vaccination Activities:
- Proactive catch-up efforts could potentially avert 78.9% of excess deaths from 2023 to 2030.
- These activities can significantly mitigate the adverse impacts of disruptions in vaccine coverage.
Timely and Targeted Implementation:
- It’s crucial to implement catch-up vaccination activities promptly.
- Tailor these activities to specific cohorts and regions most affected by disruptions for maximum effectiveness.
Improving Vaccine Coverage:
- A targeted approach can enhance vaccine coverage and reduce the adverse effects of under-immunization.
Sustained Immunization Efforts:
- Continued efforts in sustained immunization are vital.
- Vaccines like HPV, which are essential in preventing cervical cancer, should be prioritized.
Ongoing Vaccination Campaigns:
- Even amidst disruptions, it’s necessary to maintain ongoing vaccination campaigns.
- Ensuring consistent vaccination can lead to long-term public health benefits.
-Source: Down To Earth
