By Alao Joshua
As we live in a world where infectious diseases can easily cross borders, strengthening global health security is more important than ever. Vaccines are a cornerstone of preventing and controlling these diseases, offering protection against widespread outbreaks. In light of Nigeria’s recent recovery from the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigerian physician and public health expert, Dr. Olufemi Olulaja, emphasizes the critical need to boost vaccination coverage as a primary strategy for securing global health.
Dr. Olulaja, a researcher at the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), highlights that vaccine misinformation remains a significant obstacle. “Despite the clear benefits, misinformation and distrust fuel vaccine hesitancy, threatening progress in achieving optimal vaccination coverage,” he stated. He stressed that addressing vaccine hesitancy requires engaging communities and building trust by providing accurate information about vaccine safety and benefits.
However, vaccine hesitancy is not the only challenge. Dr. Olulaja also pointed out the importance of equitable access to vaccines. “To enhance global health security, we need to address inequities in vaccine distribution, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. International cooperation, investment in healthcare infrastructure, and innovative distribution strategies are crucial in ensuring that vaccines reach everyone in need.” Initiatives like COVAX, aimed at providing vaccines to under-resourced countries, play a vital role in this mission, and Nigeria must take full advantage of these opportunities.
Vaccines not only protect individuals but also strengthen communities by preventing the spread of new and reemerging diseases. Dr. Olulaja explains that vaccination primes the immune system to identify and fight specific pathogens, making it the most effective strategy for controlling infectious diseases. Historical examples, such as the eradication of smallpox and the near elimination of polio, demonstrate the power of widespread vaccination campaigns.
Dr. Olulaja also discussed the concept of herd immunity, which protects vulnerable populations by reducing the number of susceptible individuals in a community. “When enough people are vaccinated, the chances of a disease spreading to those unable to be vaccinated—such as the very young or those with certain health conditions—are significantly reduced.” He added that the COVID-19 pandemic has proven how easily diseases can transcend borders, reinforcing the need for high vaccination rates to create a global shield against such threats.
Data from Nigeria’s 2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey/National Immunization Coverage Survey shows only 36% of Nigerian children aged 12–23 months have received all recommended vaccines, with regions in the North showing the lowest vaccination rates. This highlights an urgent need for targeted interventions, particularly in these underserved areas.
According to the Global Health Security (GHS) Index, which assesses countries’ preparedness to prevent pandemics, Nigeria’s score of 38.0 indicates room for significant improvement compared to South Africa (45.8) and Kenya (48.8). Dr. Olulaja noted that this underscores the need for Nigeria to invest more in healthcare infrastructure and preparedness.
Dr. Olulaja argues that increasing vaccination coverage is about more than administering shots—it involves building a robust health system that can deliver vaccines equitably and efficiently. “Vaccination is the foundation of primary healthcare systems and plays a key role in achieving universal health coverage. By increasing vaccination rates, we reduce the burden of preventable diseases on healthcare systems, freeing up resources for other critical health needs.”
To move forward, Dr. Olulaja urges for a collaborative approach, calling on government leaders, healthcare providers, researchers, communities, and other stakeholders to advocate for increased funding for vaccine research and distribution, combat vaccine hesitancy, and ensure equitable access to vaccines. “Only by working together can we achieve a future where vaccine-preventable diseases are eradicated, and our global community is better prepared for future health threats.”
Boosting vaccination coverage is an investment in a healthier, safer, and more resilient world. The path to achieving true global health security is clear – vaccination is key, and it’s time to fully commit to this effort.