Applying an equity lens in the Decade of Vaccines

Addressing inequities in immunisation must be the main priority for the Decade of Vaccines. Children who remain unreached are those who need vaccination - and other health services - most. Reaching these children and other underserved target groups will require a reorientation of current approaches and resource allocation. At the country level, evidence-based and context-specific strategies must be developed to promote equity in ways that strengthen the system that facilitates vaccination, are sustainable and extend benefits across the life cycle. At the global level, more attention must go on ensuring sustainable and affordable supply for low- and middle-income countries to vaccine products that are appropriate for the contexts where needs are greatest. Finally, data must be disaggregated and used at all levels to monitor and guide progress to reach the unreached. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.