Value of Vaccines

They save lives, improve health and enhance quality of life

One hundred years ago, infectious diseases were the main cause of death worldwide, even in the most developed countries. Today, there is a vast range of vaccines available to protect both individuals and society against  more than 25 infectious diseases and cost burdens (cost of disease treatment, lost earnings etc) – and there are new vaccines on the horizon with the potential to prevent even more.

Consistent wide-spread use of vaccine has proven successful in controlling or even eliminating disease. Before a vaccination campaign eliminated all natural occurrences of smallpox in 1977, the disease threatened 60% of the world’s population and killed 1 out of 4 victims. Between 1999 and 2003, measles deaths dropped worldwide by almost 40%, with some regions aiming at eradicating the disease.

They protect individuals and communities

Consistent wide-spread use of vaccines can achieve remarkable public health results. By protecting individuals, whole communities can benefit from the dramatic reduction and even elimination of certain diseases. With sufficiently wide-spread vaccination even those who are not immunised can be protected via ‘herd immunity’.

They are one of the most cost-effective and successful health investments available

Immunisation is one of the most cost-effective and successful of public health interventions available. It has been used to tackle diseases such as rabies, diphtheria, tetanus, yellow fever and, more recently, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella and hepatitis B and as such the Irish healthcare system needs to continue to drive vaccination forward.

It must be remembered that while immunisation programmes require support and adequate funding, the associated prevention of mortality and morbidity provides long-term cost savings, increased productivity and economic growth.

Read more in the "Vaccines' Contribution to Europes Future" booklet: