Vaccines have successfully eradicated or significantly reduced the prevalence of several diseases in the West. However, some of these vaccines remain less accessible in developing countries, often due to logistical, financial, or political challenges. Below are examples of such vaccines and the diseases they target, as well as their impact on global mortality in under-vaccinated regions:

1. Polio (Oral Polio Vaccine – OPV / Inactivated Polio Vaccine – IPV)

  • Status in the West: Polio has been eradicated in most developed countries. The U.S., Europe, and many other regions have been declared polio-free since the late 20th century.
  • Availability in Developing Countries: Despite global campaigns like the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), polio persists in a few countries, primarily due to poor infrastructure, conflict, and vaccine hesitancy.
  • Deaths and Impact: In regions where polio still circulates (e.g., Afghanistan, Pakistan), it can lead to paralysis and death, though precise death counts are rare since polio primarily causes disability rather than fatality. Estimated mortality rates before vaccination efforts were thousands per year globally.

2. Rotavirus Vaccine

  • Status in the West: Routinely administered in developed countries, significantly reducing severe diarrhea and deaths in children.
  • Availability in Developing Countries: Although global initiatives have improved access, many low-income countries still face logistical challenges.
  • Deaths and Impact: Rotavirus causes over 200,000 deaths annually, primarily among children under five in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

3. Measles Vaccine (MMR: Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

  • Status in the West: Measles has been largely controlled in developed countries through widespread vaccination programs.
  • Availability in Developing Countries: While global campaigns have improved coverage, measles outbreaks remain common in under-vaccinated regions.
  • Deaths and Impact: Measles leads to approximately 100,000 deaths annually, mainly in Africa and Asia.

4. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

  • Status in the West: Widely available in developed countries, dramatically reducing cervical cancer rates.
  • Availability in Developing Countries: Limited access due to high costs and logistical barriers, especially in rural areas.
  • Deaths and Impact: Cervical cancer causes about 342,000 deaths annually, with 90% occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

5. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV)

  • Status in the West: Routine immunization has reduced pneumonia and meningitis caused by pneumococcal bacteria.
  • Availability in Developing Countries: Limited access despite efforts by organizations like Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
  • Deaths and Impact: Pneumococcal disease causes about 300,000 deaths annually among children under five.

6. Hepatitis B Vaccine

  • Status in the West: Part of routine immunization schedules, significantly reducing liver disease and cancer caused by hepatitis B.
  • Availability in Developing Countries: Less coverage, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, despite being included in WHO’s Expanded Program on Immunization.
  • Deaths and Impact: Chronic hepatitis B contributes to around 800,000 deaths annually, primarily from liver disease and cancer.

Challenges to Vaccine Access in Developing Countries

  • Cost: Vaccines like HPV and PCV remain expensive for many low-income countries.
  • Infrastructure: Lack of cold chains and healthcare systems limits vaccine distribution.
  • Conflict and Political Instability: War and political instability disrupt vaccination campaigns.
  • Misinformation: Vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation can reduce uptake.

Addressing these challenges requires continued investment in global health initiatives, improved infrastructure, and education to ensure vaccines reach all populations.