Nearly 20 million measles deaths averted in Africa through vaccination since 2000: WHO and Gavi report

Nearly 20 million measles deaths averted in Africa through vaccination since 2000: WHO and Gavi report
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A new analysis by the World Health Organization and the Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance says that improved immunization coverage has saved nearly 20 million lives in Africa over the past two decades, highlighting major progress against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases while warning that coverage gaps still threaten future gains.

The report finds that about 19.5 million measles-related deaths have been prevented across Africa since 2000, alongside protection for more than 500 million children through routine immunization between 2000 and 2024. During this period, vaccination coverage rose from 5% to 55%, supported by expanded use of a second measles vaccine dose in 44 countries and 622 million doses delivered through supplementary campaigns.

Overall measles deaths in the region have reportedly been cut by half, while cases have declined by around 40%. In 2024 alone, vaccinations are estimated to have saved at least 1.9 million lives, with measles vaccines accounting for 42% of those gains.

Despite these gains, WHO warns that Africa remains off track to meet global immunization targets for 2030, which aim for 90% coverage of key vaccines such as DTP3, pneumococcal, measles, and HPV vaccines. Coverage remains uneven, leaving many children—especially in fragile or remote areas—unprotected.

Experts cite population growth, weak health systems, climate shocks, and political instability as key barriers. WHO and Gavi say stronger political commitment and investment in primary health systems are urgently needed to sustain progress and close immunization gaps across the continent.