Immunization is perhaps the most significant public health achievement till date. We believe this not just because we promote immunization but also because it has proven to be the one of the most life changing innovations till date.

Immunization is a cost-effective intervention that saves at least $18 for every dollar spent in ensuring vaccinations. These costs are not just money. It includes the time spent in hospital for both the child and family member who supports his or her stay when ill. It also includes the lost time spent on productive activities, school (for the child), work (for the caregiver) and socialization within the home and community. Then, there are financial costs particularly where payments for health care are made out of pocket. As well as less acknowledged losses associated with disrupted family life, child care and death, which is a likely outcome.

Immunization has recorded successes and the most notable is eradication of small pox. If you have no idea what small pox is, you have immunization to thank for that. The last known natural case was in Somalia in 1977. Then it was declared eradicated in 1980 by the World Health Organization.  It’s a victory worth celebrating because smallpox like most vaccine preventable diseases are devastating especially to the young.

But people forget. Out of sight is sometimes out of mind. For the sake of our children, and those on the way, we must remember. Immunization is relevant today for both old and emergent diseases.  If the microbes would not stop, we should not either!