The Sudan vaccination crisis is worsening, as routine immunisation rates have dropped by half since conflict erupted in April 2023. Consequently, war disrupts health systems, leaving children exposed to preventable diseases like measles, cholera, and polio.
Collapsing Healthcare System
Sudan’s healthcare infrastructure is crippled by conflict. For instance, hospitals face looting, and medical supply chains are severed. Unicef reports that health services have collapsed in many regions, blocking access to vaccines, contributing to the vaccination crisis in Sudan. Previously, Sudan achieved 90% vaccination coverage for diseases like measles. However, this crisis has reversed decades of progress.
Rising Risks for Sudan’s Children
Over 700,000 children face preventable diseases by year-end, Unicef estimates. Measles outbreaks are spreading in Khartoum and Darfur, while polio cases re-emerge. Displaced families struggle to access vaccines, worsening the situation caused by the crisis with vaccinations in Sudan. Furthermore, many children in conflict zones miss routine immunisations, increasing mortality risks.
Urgent Need for Global Support
Unicef requests $840 million for emergency vaccination campaigns. Without swift international aid, Sudan faces a catastrophic child health crisis related to vaccinations. Therefore, restoring vaccination programs is critical to saving lives. Coordinated global efforts are essential to address this emergency.
Challenges in Reaching Vulnerable Populations
Mobile clinics aim to deliver vaccines, but violence hinders efforts. Aid workers face dangers, and poor infrastructure limits outreach. Moreover, innovative solutions, like community-based immunisation drives during the ongoing vaccination crisis, are needed to reach displaced families. Strengthening local partnerships can also improve vaccine distribution.
The Sudan vaccination crisis persists as conflict dismantles health systems. Immediate funding and global action are vital to protect children from preventable diseases. By acting swiftly, the international community can prevent a looming tragedy.
