To mark the World Immunization Week, UNICEF has released a message thanking the individuals who have been critical in helping to immunise children over the last two decades, and also calls for greater commitment to and investment in immunisation services.
On the occasion, global partners of the organisation have pledged $1 for every like, share, or comment on social media posts mentioning ‘UNICEF’ using the hashtag #longlifeforall until May 10, a UNICEF media release said on Sunday.
World Immunization Week – celebrated every year in the last week of April – is spearheaded by the World Health Organization and brings together global partners to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease.
The theme for this year is #LongLifeForAll, with ‘long life’ reflecting the importance of lifespan vaccinations.
In UNICEF’s video message, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Liam Neeson talks about how the efforts of scientists such as Jonas Salk, who developed the first vaccine against polio, and dedicated workers who fill vials at factories or deliver vaccine injections, have made it possible to save two to three million child lives each year.
“The last two years have taught us that a health care system that leaves some children exposed, is a health care system that leaves all children exposed,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
“The best way for the world to recover from this pandemic – and to prepare for future health emergencies – is to invest in stronger health systems, and immunisation and essential health services for every child.”
UNICEF is the world’s leading provider of vaccines to children in over 100 countries. Despite the successes, an alarming 23 million children missed out on vaccinations in 2020. This number can only be reduced through a greater commitment to and investment in immunisation services, the release added.
Every like, share, or comment on posts mentioning a UNICEF social media account and using the hashtag #longlifeforall from April 24 until May 10 will unlock $1 to UNICEF, from the United Nations Foundation’s Shot@Life campaign and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – up to a total of $10 million – to help ensure all children get the life-saving vaccines they need.
