Vaccine Hesitancy Threatens Eradication Efforts

Global health agencies are warning that vaccine hesitancy is undermining years of progress in the fight against deadly, preventable diseases. According to WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi, reductions in funding combined with misinformation and public distrust are contributing to a resurgence of measles, meningitis, yellow fever, and other vaccine-preventable illnesses.At the 78th World Health Assembly, global health leaders stressed that declining routine immunization coverage could reverse gains in disease control. Delegates urged investment in routine vaccination systems, better community engagement to build trust, and stronger surveillance to detect and respond to outbreaks.WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) also raised red flags: they highlighted the risks posed by budget cuts, shifting national priorities, and weakening health systems — all of which could jeopardize eradication goals, including for polio.
In its regional review, WHO’s Africa office noted that declining coverage for routine vaccines — particularly for diseases like measles, yellow fever, and polio — is putting millions of children at risk. Experts call for renewed political commitment, emergency funding, and community-led strategies to rebuild confidence in immunization.