In light of European Vaccination Week (April 24-30, 2025), the Association of Greek Pharmaceutical Companies (SFEE) emphasizes the critical importance of vaccines. It warns that vaccine fatigue following the pandemic has resulted in a significant decline in vaccination rates, which poses a serious risk of reemergence of diseases once considered eradicated.
The organization points to recent outbreaks of measles and pertussis in various European nations, including Greece, and highlights that major global challenges—such as climate change, migration, and conflicts—underscore the need for enhanced international and European cooperation in epidemiological monitoring.
“Evidence-based vaccination is essential for protecting health, well-being, and productivity when implemented consistently,” asserts the SFEE.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccines have saved at least 154 million lives worldwide since 1974—approximately six lives per minute, daily, over five decades. Moreover, they present significant savings for health care systems, often returning multiples of initial investments.
A recent study in Greece indicates that effectively executing a vaccination program for children and adolescents could prevent nearly 289,000 cases and 266 deaths annually, along with a loss of 7,470 years of life. This program could also generate annual savings of around €213 million; specifically, for every €1 invested in pediatric vaccinations, there’s a return of €3.11 in direct costs and €8.67 in total costs.
Adult vaccinations also yield considerable benefits. Data from a UK Office of Health Economics report reveals that vaccinations against influenza, pneumococcus, shingles, and RSV can provide society with returns of up to 19 times the initial investment, equating to savings of up to $4,637 for fully vaccinated adults. Furthermore, vaccines play a crucial role in combating antimicrobial resistance, an area where Greece faces significant challenges.
“Advancements in the vaccine sector are setting new benchmarks, as vaccines not only enhance immunity and prevent life-threatening diseases but are also evolving to include therapeutic applications through tailored treatment and vaccination strategies for serious illnesses like cancer,” notes the SFEE. It emphasizes that vaccination is a foundational element of health policy and a lifelong ally. The design, execution, and sustainability of vaccination programs represent an investment in individuals and society, with Greece boasting one of the most advanced vaccination programs, catering to all age groups.
Nonetheless, SFEE highlights that collective efforts and long-term partnerships are vital to:
* Establish official vaccination targets by disease, reflecting the government’s commitment to the value of vaccination programs, thereby instilling confidence among citizens and guiding health professionals required to implement the recommendations.
* Continuously educate and raise awareness regarding the importance of vaccination.
* Offer public guidance and serve as a reference for adherence to recommended guidelines.
* Ensure consistent documentation of vaccinations through registries for children, adolescents, and adults.
* Allocate an adequate budget for vaccines, adjusted according to the health needs of the population and advancements in technology.
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