VACCINATION
Why are vaccines important?
- Protects from dangerous diseases
In some regions or populations, dangerous diseases are constantly present (endemic). Examples include hepatitis B, cholera and polio. So long as these diseases are around, we need vaccines to bolster our immune systems and protect us from harm.
- Helps to control epidemicsIn a world of denser cities, increased international travel, migration and ecological change, the ability of emerging infectious diseases (such as Ebola) to spread and cause devastation is increasing. Vaccines can be a key tool in managing this threat.
- Most effective health interventionVaccines prevent an estimated 2–3 million deaths worldwide every year. It can prevent the suffering and death associated with infectious diseases like polio, measles, and pneumonia.