North Korea’s Child Vaccination Rates Plummet, Raising Concerns Over Polio Risk
Seoul, South Korea – The World Health Organization (WHO) hasexpressed deep concern over North Korea’s declining vaccination rates, revealing a significant drop in childhood immunizations, particularly for polio, in a recent report. The 2024 EPI Factsheet released on August 21st, highlights a concerning trend of missed vaccinations, raising fears of potential outbreaks of preventablediseases.
The report indicates that North Korea has not administered the oral polio vaccine type 3 (OPV3) for three consecutive years. This is a significant setback considering the country’s previously high vaccination rates. North Korea’sOPV3 coverage had consistently exceeded 98% since 2014, but dropped to 70% in 2020 and has since reached zero.
The decline in vaccination rates extends beyond polio. TheBCG vaccine, essential for protecting newborns against tuberculosis, saw a significant drop in coverage, falling from 95% in 2021 and 99% in 2022 to a mere 63% in 2023. Similarly, the measles vaccine (MCV1)coverage plummeted from 99% in 2021 to 67% in 2022 and further to 28% in 2023. The DTP vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, saw a slight improvement, rising from 0% in 2022 to 16% in 2023.
Experts attribute the sharp decline in vaccination rates to North Korea’s strict border closures imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted vaccine supply chains and hampered access to essential immunizations. The lack of access to vaccines, coupled with the absence of reliable data from North Korea, makes it difficult to assess the true extent of the situation and the potential risks posed by the declining immunization rates.
The lack of routine immunization coverage in North Korea is a serious concern, particularly for polio, said Dr. [Name of WHO Official], aspokesperson for the WHO. Polio is a highly contagious disease that can cause paralysis and even death, especially in young children. The absence of vaccination leaves North Korean children vulnerable to outbreaks.
The WHO has urged North Korea to prioritize the resumption of routine immunization programs and to ensure that all children have access to essential vaccines. The organization is working with partners to provide technical support and resources to help North Korea strengthen its immunization system.
We are committed to working with North Korea to ensure that all children are protected from preventable diseases, said Dr. [Name of WHO Official]. We call on the North Korean government to take immediate actionto address the declining vaccination rates and to ensure that all children have access to life-saving vaccines.
The situation highlights the urgent need for international cooperation and support to address the challenges faced by North Korea in maintaining essential health services. The decline in vaccination rates not only poses a significant threat to the health and well-beingof North Korean children but also carries the potential for regional outbreaks, underscoring the importance of global efforts to ensure universal access to vaccines.
Further Information:
- The WHO’s EPI Factsheet provides detailed information on the vaccination situation in North Korea, including specific data on coverage rates for various vaccines.
- The WHO is working with partners to provide technical support and resources to help North Korea strengthen its immunization system.
- The international community is urged to provide support to North Korea to ensure that all children have access to essential vaccines.
Note: This news article is based on the provided information and existing knowledge. Itis important to consult official sources and reputable organizations for the most up-to-date information on this issue.
【来源】https://cn.yna.co.kr/view/ACK20240822001000881?section=nk/index&input=rss
Views: 1