PUBLICATIONS
MAY 2021
Improving Vaccine Uptake
Overall vaccine confidence remains high internationally, but while uptake is improving in low-income countries it
has been steadily declining in many wealthy nations, and many routine immunisation services have been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
As community protection from illness requires high vaccination rates, it is concerning to see the small but steady decline in vaccine uptake which led to the significant global resurgence of measles in 2019. Due to these outbreaks, the UK lost its measles elimination status that same year, which triggered this inquiry.
Good overall immunisation rates can mask poor uptake in certain areas or among specific ethnic communities or
groups. It is therefore vital to ensure that information is provided in a broad range of languages as well as accessible formats, for those with sensory or learning disabilities.
Politicians can be tempted to think mandatory vaccination will increase uptake, but the majority of contributors suggested it runs the risk of alienating those who merely seek additional information or reassurance. In addition, as the lowest vaccine uptake is often among more marginalised groups, any system which penalises non-attenders may increase inequality.
JANUARY 2019
The Next Decade of Vaccines: Addressing the challenges that remain towards achieving vaccinations for all
Immunisation has proven the test of time as one of the most successful and cost-effective global health interventions of our time – averting an estimated 20 million deaths and 500 million cases of illness in the decade of vaccines, from 2011 to 2020.
Vaccines not only save lives but are central to global health security and a fundamental component for achieving several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
However, despite the known value of vaccines and great advances in research and development, millions of children still miss out on basic vaccines, and global immunisation rates have stalled over the past few years.
Throughout 2018, the APPG conducted an inquiry into the reasons for stalling global immunisation rates, taking written and oral evidence from a variety of stakeholders across the sector. The subsequent report highlights the key challenges that remain and provides recommendations for all immunisation actors and donors for progress in the next decade of vaccines.