Vaccination rates are slipping around the world. Canada isn’t immune, says new study
Childhood vaccination rates have been a critical tool in preventing the spread of preventable diseases for decades. However, a recent study published in The Lancet suggests that progress in vaccination coverage has started stalling or even declining in many countries around the world. This trend is not limited to developing nations, as even high-income countries like Canada have seen a decrease in vaccination rates over the past decade.
The study analyzed data from over 1,000 sources in 204 countries and territories between 1980 and 2023. It found that while there were significant improvements in vaccine coverage for diseases like measles, polio, and pertussis, progress has started to stagnate even before the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic further exacerbated the situation, with more than 15 million children globally missing routine vaccinations between 2020 and 2023.
Dr. Jonathan Mosser, one of the co-authors of the study, highlighted that the pandemic disrupted vaccination efforts, particularly in regions with low vaccine coverage. Sub-Saharan Africa was one of the hardest-hit regions, with millions of children missing out on crucial vaccines. The underlying issues contributing to declining vaccination rates vary from country to country, with factors like geopolitical instability, supply chain issues, and vaccine misinformation playing a role.
In Canada, vaccine coverage for most childhood shots has declined compared to the early 2000s. While there have been some increases in uptake for certain vaccines, such as the first dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, overall coverage remains below the threshold needed for herd immunity. Vaccine misinformation and hesitancy have eroded public confidence in vaccines, contributing to lower vaccination rates in high-income countries like Canada.
To address the declining vaccination rates, experts emphasize the need for new strategies to combat vaccine hesitancy and ensure access to vaccines for all populations. Dr. Mahli Brindamour, a pediatrician in Saskatoon, stresses the interconnectedness of global health, highlighting the importance of supporting vaccination campaigns worldwide. Dr. Gabriel Fabreau, a general internal medicine specialist in Calgary, calls for making routine vaccinations more accessible to newcomer populations.
As public health authorities work to address vaccine hesitancy and improve vaccination coverage, it is crucial to prioritize evidence-based awareness campaigns and support healthcare providers in addressing vaccine concerns. By strengthening vaccination efforts both domestically and internationally, we can work towards achieving global immunity and preventing the resurgence of preventable diseases.
