CHILD IMMUNISATION RATES DROP BY 50%, SPARKS CONCERNS OVER DISEASE OUTBREAKS

Article By: Diana Motsu

Health experts have warned that the sharp decline in childhood immunization rates in Botswana could lead to outbreaks of preventable diseases. In 2024, only 50% of children under 12 months were fully vaccinated, raising alarms among health officials.

According to UNICEF Botswana, coverage for key vaccines, such as polio and measles, has fallen to concerning levels. The decline is attributed to COVID-19 disruptions, limited healthcare access, and growing vaccine hesitancy in some communities.

In response, UNICEF, the World Health Organization, and government have launched a National Immunization Strategy aimed at improving vaccine coverage and ensuring access across all areas.

This initiative comes as part of World Immunization Week, which calls for collective action to safeguard children’s health and strengthen Botswana’s public health system.