·       A study shows that adult vaccination programs represent a 19-fold return on their initial investment; the results highlight the opportunity to alleviate pressure on health systems by adopting a mindset that prioritizes prevention and includes adult immunization programs. [i]

Guatemala, 2025. Immunization is an unquestionable human right, as it is an essential component of primary health care. It must be understood that vaccines strengthen the body's natural defenses, generating prevention and protection against outbreaks of infectious diseases; that is, when a person is vaccinated, their immune system is activated. [ii]

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that immunization is an exemplary achievement of health and development on a global scale that saves millions of lives each year, in addition to its significant impact on global health security and the fight against antimicrobial resistance. ²

“We must not forget that health is a component of human development and it is never too late to strengthen it. This is why immunization processes must be implemented that take into account the different life stages, making an important contribution to closing immunity gaps and minimizing the impact of diseases, increasing the body's ability to stay healthy throughout the different stages of life, and reducing mortality rates from all causes in the population . 2030 of the The World Health Organization focuses on the need to establish a life-cycle approach to immunization, highlighting the role of vaccination as a strategy to prevent disease and maximize health, regardless of age , [iv] ” "This is emphasized by Juliana Villarreal, Global Director of Public Affairs for Pfizer's Primary Care Portfolio in Emerging Markets."

Furthermore, in order to involve communities in diagnosing vaccination gaps, it is essential to implement social listening and communication programs, since misinformation and disinformation about vaccines can lead people to perceive risks where none exist. [v] A WHO-led study shows that immunization is, of all health interventions, the one that contributes most to ensuring that babies not only reach their first birthday, but also lead a healthy life in adulthood. [vii]

A study conducted by the Office of Health Economics (OHE) and commissioned by the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) analyzed the economic and social impact of adult vaccination against influenza, pneumococcal disease, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and herpes zoster. The research examines the implementation of vaccination programs in countries representing a wide range of healthcare systems, demographics, and immunization schedules, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, South Africa, Thailand, the United States, and the United States. The report concludes that adult vaccination programs represent a substantial return on public investment, saving costs in healthcare systems and generating broader socioeconomic benefits. Disease prevention reduces visits to doctors and hospitals, freeing up valuable resources for other purposes, and ensuring a healthy and active workforce throughout life can boost economic productivity. The data also demonstrate that adult immunization can provide socioeconomic benefits proportional to those of childhood immunization programs. ¹

“ At Pfizer, we believe vaccination is one of the best ways to help protect infants, children, and adults against infectious diseases. Furthermore, as this important study shows, vaccination is one of the most effective public health measures and can also be a powerful driver of more productive economies and more resilient societies ,” said Sinan Atlig, President of Pfizer in Latin America and Head of the Emerging Markets Business Organization.

A call to action

Given that vaccination programs bring real benefits to health systems and societies around the world, all actors are called upon to prioritize lifelong immunization programs and to take into account these six guiding principles of the WHO Global Vaccine Action Plan: [vii]

1.     Country involvement. It is primarily the countries that must be involved in establishing a good, effective, and quality immunization service delivery system for all. ⁷

2.     Shared responsibility and partnerships. Immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases is an individual, community, and governmental responsibility that transcends borders and sectors. ⁷

3.     Equity. Equitable access to immunization is a fundamental component of the right to health. ⁷

4.     Integration. To achieve overall immunization goals, robust immunization systems are essential; these systems must be part of broader health systems and closely coordinated with other primary health care delivery programs. ⁷

5.     Sustainability. To ensure the sustainability of immunization programs, decisions and implementation strategies based on scientific knowledge, adequate levels of financial investment, and improved financial management and oversight are essential. ⁷

6.     Innovation. The full potential of immunization can only be realized through learning, continuous improvement and innovation in research and development, as well as innovation and quality improvement in all aspects of immunization. ⁷

Consult your doctor. PP-A1G-CRI-0037

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