Investment Manager Reveals Impact of Global Conflict on Children's Vaccination Rates
In a recent report by the United Nations, it was revealed that more children were left without critical vaccinations in 2023 due to rising conflicts around the world. This shortage of life-saving shots, particularly in conflict-ridden areas, has led to 14.5 million children missing out on essential vaccines, compared to 13.9 million in the previous year.
The UN estimates also showed that an additional 6.5 million children did not receive the full course of vaccinations, leaving them unprotected against diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough. This is a concerning trend, as 84% of infants globally received their full course of vaccinations, falling below the necessary level to prevent disease outbreaks.
War-torn countries saw a significant increase in unvaccinated children in 2023, with Sudan experiencing a drastic drop in vaccination coverage from 75% to 57%. This meant that over 700,000 children in Sudan were left unvaccinated against deadly diseases like measles and diphtheria.
Countries like Sudan, Yemen, and Afghanistan were newly added to the list of nations with the highest number of unvaccinated children in 2023. More than half of the world's unvaccinated children reside in countries facing conflict or vulnerability, despite these nations accounting for only 28% of the global birth cohort.
However, there were some positive developments in the report, such as a decrease in the number of "zero-dose" children in Africa and improved coverage of the HPV vaccine globally. Even amidst conflicts, countries like Ukraine showed an improvement in vaccination rates.
As an investment manager, it is crucial to consider the impact of global conflicts on healthcare systems and vaccination programs. The lack of access to essential vaccines not only poses a threat to public health but also reflects the broader challenges faced by countries in conflict. By understanding these trends, investors can make informed decisions about supporting healthcare initiatives in vulnerable regions, ultimately contributing to the well-being of children worldwide.