By Daniel Edu
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Pate, has called for international collaboration to bolster childhood vaccination efforts and vaccine research globally. Speaking at the First Asia Pacific Summit on Infectious Diseases and Immunisation in Singapore, organized by the Asia Pacific Immunisation Coalition (APIC) under the theme “Vaccination for All: Access, Confidence, and Equity (ACE),” Pate highlighted the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and climate change in the 21st century.
Pate stressed the vital role of vaccines in addressing these crises and emphasized the need for equitable access, enhanced confidence, and global health equity. The summit aimed to foster collaboration, strengthen partnerships, and maintain vaccines as a beacon of hope amid these complex challenges.
In his address, Pate acknowledged the progress made in global health over the past 25 years, with increased life expectancies and reduced child mortality rates, thanks to expanded global access to vaccines. He highlighted vaccines’ role in mitigating the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic by facilitating reopening and economic recovery.
However, Pate also noted existing challenges, such as millions of children worldwide lacking access to basic immunization series and the rise of anti-science and anti-vaccine movements. He outlined three key themes of the summit: access, confidence, and equity.
Pate emphasized the need to prioritize equitable vaccine access, break down barriers, and integrate vaccine delivery within national health systems. He underscored the importance of building confidence in vaccines, requiring clear communication, addressing misinformation, and engaging with communities. Achieving equity in vaccine access, both within and between countries, was highlighted as a cornerstone for a healthier and more just world.
The summit, which brought together experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders from around the world, aimed to mobilize global efforts, strengthen partnerships, and ensure vaccines remain a beacon of hope amid various challenges. The event featured panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, focusing on innovative strategies for building trust and confidence in vaccines and fostering collaborations for global vaccine equity. The summit concluded with a call for sustained global cooperation in the realm of vaccination and immunisation.
