Immunization: A shot at a healthy Beginning
- Blessing Amatemeso
- Apr 24, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 25, 2025
Did you know that the concept of immunization dates back over a thousand years? In 10th-century China, people practiced variolation—the process of exposing individuals to smallpox scabs to build immunity. This rudimentary method laid the groundwork for modern vaccines. But the real breakthrough came in 1796 when Edward Jenner, a British physician, used material from cowpox lesions to protect against smallpox. His discovery marked the birth of modern immunization and would go on to save millions of lives.
Fast forward to the 20th century: the world witnessed a public health miracle when smallpox—once a deadly global scourge—was declared eradicated in 1980 through coordinated vaccination efforts. It remains one of the greatest achievements in medical history.
A Global Health Triumph
The progress made since then is nothing short of remarkable. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have played pivotal roles in transforming immunization into one of the most cost-effective public health tools available.
Together, they've led global initiatives like:
The Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI): Launched by WHO in 1974, it aimed to ensure every child receives protection against common vaccine-preventable diseases.
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance: In collaboration with WHO, UNICEF, and other partners, Gavi has helped immunize over 1 billion children since 2000.
Polio Eradication Initiatives: Through tireless vaccination campaigns, polio has been eliminated in most parts of the world, with cases reduced by over 99%.
Thanks to these efforts, diseases like measles, tetanus, diphtheria, and rubella have become increasingly rare, especially in countries with strong immunization systems.
While it's easy to take vaccines for granted, especially in the digital age, the truth is: vaccination saves lives.
Immunization:
Protects children from deadly and disabling diseases.
Reduces the spread of infections within communities.
Builds herd immunity, protecting even those who cannot be vaccinated.
Lays the foundation for a healthy childhood and future.
Every dose is a step toward a disease-free world. Vaccines are not just injections; they are investments in your child's future, in your community's wellbeing, and in public health at large.
A Healthy Beginning Starts Here
From ancient practices to modern breakthroughs, the journey of immunization has been long, challenging, and deeply impactful. With the tools and knowledge available today, no child should suffer or die from a vaccine-preventable disease.
So, to every parent out there: Make that clinic visit. Ask the questions. Keep to the schedule. Protect your child.
A healthy beginning often starts with a single, powerful step — a vaccine.
To everyone out there, talk to someone today, you never know who's life you'll save
As WHO says, "Immunization for all is humanly possible"
In support of the global vaccination mission, Eustar and Gold is playing an active role by providing health education , reliable cold chain solutions, mobile vaccine carriers, and innovative immunization kits to healthcare centres.
Subscribe to Eustar and Gold at www.eustargold.com to learn more about our impact and support the journey toward a healthier world.
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