Africa has averted nearly 20 million measles deaths through expanded vaccination, demonstrating the life-saving impact of sustained immunisation efforts across the continent.
“Africa has made remarkable progress in less than a generation, expanding immunisation and saving millions of young lives,” said Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa.
Since 2000, more than 500 million children have been protected through routine measles vaccination, with coverage for a second dose rising from 5% to 55% by 2024. Campaigns delivered 622 million doses, helping halve measles deaths and reduce cases by 40%. In 2025, Cabo Verde, Mauritius and Seychelles achieved elimination status, while broader immunisation programmes now protect against 13 diseases and saved at least 1.9 million lives in 2024 alone, highlighting the long-term impact of vaccines on child survival and public health.
