Summary:
- This article reports on a study that evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on routine childhood immunization coverage in 57 low- and middle-income countries. The study found that routine childhood immunization coverage declined significantly during the pandemic, with an estimated 3.7 million more children missing out on routine vaccinations in 2020 compared to 2019.
- The authors highlight the urgent need to restore and strengthen routine childhood immunization services to prevent further declines in coverage and the potential for outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. They recommend implementing strategies such as catch-up vaccination campaigns, strengthening supply chains, and addressing vaccine hesitancy to address the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
- The findings underscore the significant and long-lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on essential health services, particularly for vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income countries. The authors emphasize the importance of prioritizing the restoration and resilience of routine immunization programs to protect children's health and well-being.