External Affairs

Vaccines have transformed public health, protecting people around the world against a range of infectious diseases. By protecting individuals, whole communities can benefit from the dramatic reduction and even elimination of certain diseases.

In recent decades vaccines have had a highly positive impact. Through effective vaccine use smallpox was eradicated in the late 1970s and WHO declared Europe polio free in 2002. Immunization saves huge numbers of lives : WHO estimates approximately 3 million each year [1]. Since 1988, 5 million people have avoided paralysis caused by polio [2]. In addition, vaccine innovations developed over recent years offer individuals and communities the possibility of protection against an increasing number of diseases. For instance, new vaccines against human papilloma virus, rotavirus and pneumococcal infection can not only save additional lives every year but also improve welfare and quality of life, by reducing hospitalisations and the disabilities caused by infection.

Immunization represents one of the most cost-effective health interventions available [3]. While immunization programmes require support and adequate funding, the associated prevention of mortality and morbidity provides long-term cost savings. In 2003, vaccines were responsible for direct societal savings of US$10 billion (Source : Ehreth. The global value of vaccination. Vaccine 203 ; 21:596-600). In addition, the benefits of vaccination are not limited to disease control and health-care savings. WHO recognises a number of broader advantages that accrue from immunization, including economic growth.

However, comprehensive vaccination programmes and supportive policies are crucial to fully realise this potential, and substantially improve the health and welfare of entire populations. Health systems around the world must continue to drive vaccination forward. As part of this drive, vaccine producers are a key partner, working closely with governments and humanitarian agencies around the world.

More about vaccination and public health :

>> Medicines for Mankind - Better health through vaccination

>> Better health through vaccination : European perspectives

Key topics

EVM Political Programme 2009/2010

>> EVM Policy Priorities in the EU 2009/10

Health Workforce

>> European Initiative

>> European Commission Green Paper on the European Workforce for Health

>> EVM reply to the public consultation on the green paper on the EU Workforce for Health

Anti Microbial Resistance

Antibiotic resistance is on the rise in most countries across the European Union making common infections increasingly untreatable with routine antibiotics. As a result, novel and more expensive antibiotics need to be developed and used. One of the most pragmatic responses is to promote the rational use of antibiotics together with preventing the underlying infections, which require antibiotic treatment. In this respect, antibacterial vaccines may have a unique role in the global fight against antibiotic resistance. The preventive use of these vaccines would protect the individuals and communities against the infectious diseases by reducing the chance to meet an antibiotic resistant bacteria and consequently of acquiring antibiotic-resistance ; and should lead in reducing the very need to use antibiotics.

>>EVM Briefing Sheet on the Role of Vaccination in Reducing Anti Microbial Resistance - March 2010