WHO Warns of Immunisation Gaps in Southeast Asia

Millions of children remain unvaccinated, raising urgent concerns about public health resilience.

Why are vaccination rates stagnating?

International – The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm over faltering immunisation coverage in Southeast Asia. Despite decades of progress, millions of “zero-dose” children those who have never received a single vaccine remain vulnerable to preventable diseases.

What risks does this pose?

Outbreaks of measles, polio, and diphtheria could resurface if coverage continues to stagnate. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine immunisation, and recovery has been slow. WHO warns that without urgent action, decades of public health gains could be reversed.

How can governments respond?

WHO is urging regional governments to expand outreach, strengthen supply chains, and invest in community-based vaccination programs. The challenge is not only logistical but also cultural, as misinformation continues to erode trust in vaccines.

Source: Healthcareasia.org