The world keeps millions of vaccines on ice. Is it worth it?
Summary
Researchers have found that global vaccine stockpiles have prevented millions of disease cases and deaths over the past 20 years. These stockpiles contain vaccines for diseases like cholera, Ebola, meningitis, and yellow fever and can be sent to any country experiencing an outbreak. However, there is concern about the future of these stockpiles due to reduced global health funding.Key Facts
- The global vaccine stockpiles have cholera, Ebola, meningitis, and yellow fever vaccines.
- Vaccines are stored in refrigerators or freezers around the world and are available to any country needing them.
- Researchers found a 60% reduction in disease cases and deaths due to these stockpiles.
- The study estimated 6 million cases and 300,000 deaths have been prevented.
- The economic benefit from the stockpiles is estimated at over $32 billion.
- Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, funds the stockpile and aims to maintain around 5 million cholera vaccine doses.
- Global health funding cuts are raising concerns about the future of these stockpiles.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
