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| Photo by Masum Rahimi on Unsplash |
By Simbiat Amzat
We have immunization on our minds at Shades of Us, with special focus on The Big Catch-Up.
So, what is The Big Catch-Up?
It is a global movement led by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), alongside the World Health Organization (WHO), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and other partners, to ensure that every child, everywhere, receives the life-saving vaccines they need. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of children missed out on routine immunizations, placing them at risk of deadly but preventable diseases. The Big Catch-Up calls on governments, communities, and donors to urgently act and invest in closing this immunization gap—because no child should suffer or die from a disease we can prevent.
Why Is Immunization Necessary?
Immunization is one of the most effective ways to prevent and protect individuals and communities from vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles, polio, and influenza. Despite significant progress, these diseases still claim millions of lives worldwide each year. By getting vaccinated, we not only safeguard our health but also prevent the spread of diseases to vulnerable populations, like children and older adults.
World Immunization Week…But For Every Week
World Immunization Week is observed from April 24 to April 30 annually. In 2025, the theme was "Immunization for All is Humanly Possible". The initiative highlighted the significant progress made over the past 50 years, during which vaccines have saved over 154 million lives. However, it also underscored the ongoing challenges, such as the 22 million children who missed their first dose of measles vaccine in 2023, and the need for continued investment and commitment to immunization programs worldwide.
While World Immunization Week shines a vital spotlight on the life-saving power of vaccines, the truth is that the fight against vaccine-preventable diseases must happen every single week of the year. Immunization isn't just a once-a-year message—it is a daily necessity for protecting communities, saving lives, and ensuring that no child is left behind. In a world where millions still lack access to routine vaccines and outbreaks continue to threaten vulnerable populations, consistent investment, education, and advocacy are essential. Making immunization a year-round priority means building stronger health systems, preventing future pandemics, and moving closer to a future where everyone, everywhere, is protected.
How Can You Help?
Spread Awareness: Share information about the importance of immunization on social media, with friends and family, or through community events.
Encourage Vaccination: Encourage loved ones to get vaccinated, especially those who are due for booster shots or have missed doses.
Volunteer: Look for local health organizations or clinics that need volunteers to help with vaccination efforts.
Donate: Consider donating to organizations that provide vaccines to underserved communities.
Educate Yourself: Learn about different vaccines, their benefits, and myths surrounding them to inform others better.
Let us work together to make a difference!
Stay Connected
Be a part of the Shades of Us community! Our mission is to amplify your voice and work together for a world where children do not face vaccine-preventable diseases without adequate protection. Support the awareness and advocacy, and stay tuned for updates, events, and stories that inspire, uplift, and unite us.
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Call to Action
Get vaccinated, spread the word, and join the global effort to protect lives and build a healthier future.
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