United Nations warns millions of children worldwide remain without essential vaccinations

Thursday 16 July 2026 - 15:02

By: Azzat Manal

United Nations warns millions of children worldwide remain without essential vaccinations

The United Nations has warned that millions of children around the world remain outside routine immunization programs, despite modest improvements in global vaccination coverage during 2025.

According to new data released by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, approximately 116 million children received at least one dose of the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccine last year, while around 85% completed the recommended three-dose schedule. Although these figures represent a slight improvement compared with previous years, they have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Health agencies emphasize that conflicts, population displacement, poverty, and reductions in international funding continue to limit access to essential vaccines in many parts of the world.

An estimated 13.5 million children, often referred to as "zero-dose children," did not receive a single routine vaccine during their first year of life in 2025. While this number has declined compared with recent years, international organizations stress that it remains unacceptably high.

The report also highlights another growing concern: many children begin their vaccination schedules but fail to complete them. This leaves them vulnerable to preventable diseases such as measles, diphtheria, and whooping cough.

Global health officials have also linked recent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases to declining immunization rates and the spread of misinformation about vaccines. Measles outbreaks, in particular, have increased in several regions, while cases of cholera and diphtheria have also been reported in countries facing humanitarian crises.

WHO and UNICEF warn that reduced financial support for global immunization programs could make it even more difficult to reach vulnerable communities in the coming years. Public health experts stress that sustained investment is essential to maintain vaccination campaigns and prevent future outbreaks.

Despite these challenges, the report notes that vaccination coverage reached record levels in several low-income countries supported by international immunization partnerships, demonstrating that continued investment and coordinated public health efforts can produce significant progress.

Health organizations continue to urge governments, donors, and international partners to strengthen immunization programs, combat vaccine misinformation, and ensure that every child has access to life-saving vaccines regardless of where they live.