| |
This time a few years ago, when still a student and keen to do something adventurous in the long summer ahead, I decide to take a trip around South East Asia. Though a classic student route, it was the first time I had really been outside of Europe, so personally, it felt quite groundbreaking. Whilst I was getting excited and looking up all the possible places I could go, with little thought to time or money, it did come to my attention that I may need some extra vaccinations.
The doctor said I’d need to check what I’d already had as a child, and having no recollection or record myself, I did what any sensible soul would. I asked my mum.
She delved into a thick file, and to my relief pulled out a small slip of paper that detailed every vaccination I’d had, with dates and boosters. There was my problem solved.
For my mum, like the majority of people in the Global North, vaccinating your child is a standard procedure. Like teaching them to walk, because of course, we wish to give them the best possible chance at life.
Vaccination levels fell in the 1990’s, but thanks to renewed support, this year it has risen again to 85% of children vaccinated worldwide. As Bill Gates advocates, what is needed is the cooperation from numerous parties; global corporations, governments, NGOs and people on the ground. As the global market expands, investors will look more to the developing world, but their investments are at risk if the population is not able to uphold a project.
A good level of health in a population is vital if the society is going to rise out of poverty. If we want to eradicate poverty in a generation, we have to ensure that the next generation are strong enough to encourage economic growth, and reach their full potential as individuals. This cannot happen without the security of vaccinations.
Our vaccination system here is so ingrained, that I never even thought about it until I decided to travel. I had never considered that I would get meningitis, measles or tuberculosis, and it is one of many safety nets that has allowed me to pursue my goals without a second thought to my health. Yes I take it for granted, and I would like the millions of other children around the world to be able to as well. |
Design by 
