This year's theme was ‘Let’s Talk about Vaccines. ' Vaccinations play a vital role in reducing the world’s burden of infectious diseases and, in some cases, non-communicable diseases such as cancer.
Vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize and combat pathogens (viruses or bacteria). They introduce a small, harmless part of the pathogen (like proteins) or a weakened version, allowing the body to create memory cells that respond quickly if the disease appears. Vaccines are highly effective in reducing the risk of infection and severity of illness. High vaccination rates contribute to herd immunity, which protects those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons or age, reducing the spread of contagious diseases. Vaccines undergo rigorous clinical trials and monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy. The process includes multiple phases of testing and continuous monitoring, as well as post-approval surveillance. Some vaccines like those for COVID-19 or tetanus, may require boosters to maintain strong immunity over time, especially as viruses evolve or immunity naturally wanes.
At Roche, we encouraged employees to start a conversation around vaccines. During this conversation, we discussed the importance and relevance of vaccinations. Below are the key takeaways.
Vaccines are not just for babies and children. There are vaccinations available and applicable throughout your life.
Vaccinations are not just about you as an individual. Getting vaccinated impacts communities, friends, colleagues, and families around you.
If you are unsure about which vaccines you need, you should visit your local pharmacy to gain more information.
Vaccinations have increased its relevance since COVID-19 and the World Health Organization (WHO) released the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) which is an ambitious global strategy to maximize the lifesaving impact of vaccines. More information on IA2030 can be found at
Vaccines save 4.4 million lives every year which has the potential to increase to 5.8 million by 2030 if the goals of the IA2030 are met.
Some of the goals of IA2030 include the following: reduce mortality and morbidity from vaccine-preventable diseases for everyone throughout the life course; leave no one behind by increasing equitable access and use of new and existing vaccines; ensure good health and well-being for everyone by strengthening immunization within primary healthcare and contributing to universal healthcare and sustainable development.
Useful information for you and your family about what, when, and how to get the recommended vaccines can be found at
Recent innovations, like mRNA vaccines, have revolutionized vaccine development. This technology could pave the way for more rapid responses to emerging diseases and even vaccines for non-infectious diseases like cancer.
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