General information
Over the past 20 years, immunization has prevented approximately 20 million deaths from vaccine-preventable infections. Without vaccines, disease would become more rampant, the public health system would be overburdened with treatment costs, and deaths—particularly in children—would increase dramatically. Immunization is a valuable tool in protecting health, enhancing economic security and political stability, and improving health systems.
View resources on general information
Key resources
The Jordan Report (2007)
A comprehensive report published by the US National Institutes of Health that outlines significant advances in developing vaccines against infectious diseases.
Global Immunization Vision and Strategy (2005)
A joint strategy for the years 2006 to 2015 from the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to expand the reach of immunization, sustain existing levels of vaccine coverage, introduce new vaccines, and link immunization with other health interventions.
State of the World’s Vaccines and Immunization (2003)
WHO, UNICEF, and the World Bank examine progress made in global immunization, the pitfalls facing immunization, and the promise of future vaccines.
The Initiative for Vaccine Research: Strategic Plan 2006-2009 (2006)
The current and future plans, objectives, and milestones for WHO’s Initiative for Vaccine Research.
Featured PATH resources
Fragile Lives—Immunization at Risk (2004)
Filmed on location in Africa, Asia, and Europe, this film brings to life the human face of immunization, its promises, and its challenges.
PATH’s Children’s Vaccine Program: Increasing Immunization Coverage, Improving Immunization Safety, and Expanding Protection (2004)
A summary of the key achievements of PATH’s Children’s Vaccine Program, with a special focus on its work in China, India, and Indonesia.
