A proposed decision by the US Health Secretary to exit the Gavi vaccine alliance could reverse decades of progress in reducing child mortality worldwide.

Vaccines Prevented 150 Million Infant Death

Over the past five decades, vaccinations have averted approximately 150 million deaths, accounting for 40% of the global decline in under‑five mortality by eliminating diseases like smallpox, measles, TB, whooping cough, and tetanus.

Historical Survival Rates in Developed Nations

A century ago, even in the US, 25% of children died before age five. Today, child survival rates in the poorest countries surpass those in past wealthy nations—thanks largely to vaccines.

US Funding Made Up 13% of Gavi Budget

The US has historically contributed around 13% of Gavi’s funding, pledging $2.53 billion through 2030 support projected to save 1.2 million lives by extending immunization campaigns.

Withdrawal Would Leave Millions Without Vaccines

If US funding is withdrawn, an estimated 75 million children could miss critical vaccines, leading to approximately one million preventable deaths from measles, TB, pneumonia, and more.

Diseases Ignored Abroad Threaten Domestic Health

Unchecked global outbreaks jeopardize US public health measles and drug‑resistant TB do not remain overseas, and global vaccine coverage protects against resurgence domestically.

Gavi Advocates Urge Sustained Funding

Health leaders warn that cuts would critically endanger global health security. The Gates Foundation and other donors are seeking to bridge funding gaps, but US contributions are pivotal.

Political Fault Lines and Accountability

Criticism is growing toward US officials and lawmakers enabling this move. Experts say the decision disregards scientific consensus on disease transmission and vaccination effectiveness

Risk of Repeating Century‑Old Tragedies

Reversing vaccine investments threatens to repeat the childhood mortality rates of a century ago. The US withdrawal could unravel global public health achievements with deadly consequences.