A Life-Changing Intervention

Globally, rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrhoea among children, and Uzbekistan has suffered immensely from its consequences. Before the vaccine was introduced in 2014, rotavirus infections not only placed a hefty demand on the healthcare system but also threatened the lives of countless children.

How It Works

Uzbekistan employs two primary vaccines for rotavirus: Rotarix, which is given in two doses at two and four months old, and RotaTeq, administered in three doses. According to the Ministry of Health, these measures have fundamentally shifted the landscape of child health in the country.

Before the Vaccine: A Heavy Toll

Dr. Renat Latipov from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted that groundwork for the vaccine began as early as 2009, with extensive studies conducted to evaluate rotavirus's impact not only in Uzbekistan but also in neighboring Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. In fact, 700 child deaths were recorded annually due to rotavirus before vaccination programs began.

A Shift in Health Indicators

The transformative nature of the rotavirus vaccine is further demonstrated by significant reductions in disease incidence. Recent statistics reveal that diarrheal diseases among children under five have fallen to around 10,000 cases annually, a remarkable 50% reduction compared to pre-vaccine figures, all amidst a rising population now nearing 37 million.

Unexpected Benefits and Broader Implications

Interestingly, the rotavirus vaccine has showcased indirect benefits by enhancing general immunity in children. Similar to past experiences with oral polio vaccines, it appears to bolster resistance to various infectious diseases, promoting overall health beyond just protection against rotavirus.

An International Role Model

Uzbekistan's immunisation programme is now viewed as a global benchmark for effectiveness. The routine vaccination coverage for childhood diseases, evaluated through the third dose of the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine, is reported at an astonishing 99%, highlighting the country’s exceptional public health achievements.