Immunisation – more commonly known as vaccination – remains one of the most effective public health interventions we have. Each year, it prevents an estimated 2 to 3 million deaths worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccines are rigorously tested for safety and continue to be closely monitored even after approval, making them a reliable and essential part of disease prevention across all age groups.
The impact is hard to ignore. In 2023 alone, vaccinations against 14 diseases – including measles, hepatitis B and pertussis – helped prevent nearly 4.2 million deaths globally. But despite this progress, access remains uneven. Around one in five children worldwide still miss out on lifesaving vaccines, leaving millions vulnerable to diseases that are entirely preventable.
There are a few reasons for this. Limited access to healthcare services continues to be a major barrier in many regions, while vaccine hesitancy and misinformation have also slowed uptake. Even global progress has plateaued in recent years, with millions of children either under-vaccinated or not vaccinated at all.
When vaccination rates drop, the risk of outbreaks rises – something health organisations continue to warn about. The WHO maintains that improving access, strengthening healthcare systems and building trust in vaccines are all key to closing these gaps. And the potential payoff is significant: experts estimate that a further 1.5 million lives could be saved each year with better vaccine coverage.
Before deciding to delay or skip a vaccine, it’s worth understanding what’s actually at stake. We spoke to Dr Nandipa Mafongosi, Medical Advisor at Bestmed Medical Scheme, to unpack common misconceptions and explain the real risks of not completing vaccinations.
Q: Why do vaccinations still matter, especially in African countries where access remains limited?
A: Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect people from serious illnesses. Between 2 to 3 million lives are saved every year because of vaccinations, yet millions of other people, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), still don’t have reliable access to vaccines, particularly in Africa due to:
- Clinics being too far away in some communities.
- Healthcare systems being too stretched.
- Routine immunisation/vaccination doesn’t always happen on time.
When this happens, gaps start to form and preventable diseases, such as measles or polio, resurface. Improving access and making sure people understand the value of vaccines is key to protecting more families and communities.
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Q: Why is vaccination important at every stage of life, from birth through to adulthood?
A: It’s easy to think of vaccines as a measure only children get, but protection doesn’t stop there. Early childhood vaccines are critical, but immunity can fade over time and some health risks only become relevant later in life.
Teenagers and adults may need booster shots to help protect them during later stages of life, as well as to travel. Taking a lifelong approach to vaccination helps people stay protected at every stage and plays an important role in keeping communities healthier overall.
Q: What are some common misconceptions about vaccinations and what are the risks of missing them?
A: One of the biggest challenges is misinformation. Some people feel vaccines are not necessary anymore because they don’t often see the diseases they prevent. Others may have concerns about safety. The reality is that vaccines have been so effective that many of these diseases have become less visible, but they haven’t disappeared.
When fewer people get vaccinated, diseases can resurface. Missing vaccinations doesn’t only increase the risk for individuals; it can lead to serious complications, long-term health issues and, in some cases, even death, especially for people with immune-compromised systems, such as young children or the elderly.
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Q: How can improving uptake help protect individuals and strengthen communities?
A: When more people are vaccinated, everyone benefits (Herd immunity). This reduces the spread of disease and helps protect those who can’t be vaccinated, such as newborn babies or people with certain medical conditions. It also means fewer people become seriously ill, which takes pressure off already stretched healthcare systems. At a community level, higher vaccination rates make outbreaks less likely and help keep schools, workplaces and families safer. Ultimately, improving uptake is one of the most practical ways to build healthier, more resilient communities.
Vaccinations are available at most local clinics and pharmacies. Speak to your healthcare provider if you’re unsure which ones you or your family may need.
