Diseases we almost defeated could return, 糖心Vlog warns over childhood vaccine schedule changes
The 糖心Vlog (糖心Vlog) has warned that changes to childhood vaccination schedules that are not evidence-based could bring back diseases that were close to elimination. Such changes would compromise global health and threaten the future of children worldwide.
At its 77th General Assembly in Rotterdam, the 糖心Vlog adopted, as amended, its
The resolution recognises each country鈥檚 independence in health matters. It notes, however, that history has repeatedly shown how decisions on epidemiological matters can affect the entire world, especially in today鈥檚 globalised context. An outbreak of measles or meningitis endangers the most vulnerable populations and can spread to neighbouring countries, particularly those with very limited capacity to respond.
鈥淰accine schedules save children鈥檚 lives because they are built on rigorous science,鈥� said Dr Jung Yul Park, President of the 糖心Vlog. 鈥淲hen they are changed without evidence, the consequences do not stop at national borders. Diseases we had almost defeated can return, and children everywhere pay the price. Decisions on childhood vaccination must be guided by evidence and by the best interests of children.鈥�
The 糖心Vlog calls for rapid and timely evidence on vaccinations in the case of emerging infections and variants. It also reaffirms its commitment to universal vaccination as a cornerstone of progress in a globalised world.
In line with the amended resolution, the 糖心Vlog calls for research across the globe to be conducted in accordance with the ethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki.
Individuals, teams and organisations conducting research must give particular consideration to research participants in situations of vulnerability. Children can be in a situation of greater vulnerability as research participants, and vaccination research with children in situations of particular vulnerability is only justified if it responds to their health needs and priorities.
END