Health

Urgent Action in Yemen: IRC Unveils Bold Strategy to Combat Childhood Vaccination Crisis

2025-07-10

Author: Nur

A Lifeline for Yemen's Children

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has joined forces with Yemen’s Ministry of Public Health and Population to launch a transformative new strategy aimed at revitalizing childhood vaccination rates in some of the nation’s most vulnerable communities. With a decade of conflict wreaking havoc on Yemen's health systems, the need for immediate action has never been more dire.

The Alarming Drop in Vaccination Rates

Vaccination coverage has plummeted across Yemen, leaving many children perilously unprotected against preventable yet deadly diseases. Currently, a staggering fewer than 4 in 10 children aged 12–23 months are fully immunized, while 17% have never received even a single dose. The consequences are catastrophic: there have been 237 recorded cases of polio since 2021, and over 50,000 measles cases have struck in 2023 alone.

Confronting Mistrust and Misinformation

While many caregivers recognize the critical benefits of vaccines—and importantly, that they are available at no cost—deep-seated fears and widespread misinformation have led to a troubling hesitancy in seeking immunization for their children. The IRC's new Behavior Change Strategy is designed to dismantle these barriers by rebuilding trust between families and healthcare professionals.

A Multifaceted Approach to Boost Vaccination Rates

The IRC's strategy incorporates several key initiatives: improving the cleanliness and accessibility of clinics, enhancing healthcare worker training to foster respectful and family-centered care, and partnering with influential community figures—such as religious leaders and educators—to disseminate accurate vaccine information and personal success stories. Mobile vaccination teams will also venture into remote areas to ensure broader access, while awareness campaigns utilizing radio, posters, and local materials will engage families and encourage participation.

Backed by Global Partners

This vital initiative enjoys support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, highlighting a robust commitment to fortifying Yemen's public health system and safeguarding the nation’s children. Caroline Sekyewa, IRC’s Country Director in Yemen, emphasized the urgency, stating, “Mistrust and misinformation are costing lives. Communities demand safe and respectful care. Together, we can shift the tide against preventable diseases and secure a healthier future for Yemen’s children.”

A Global Partnership with Local Impact

Mesfin Teklu Tessema, Head of the IRC’s Health Unit, noted the significant strides already made, thanks to Gavi’s backing. To date, over 14 million vaccine doses have been administered, reaching more than 1.4 million children in conflict and crisis scenarios, providing many with their first vaccinations. As Gavi embarks on its new strategy backed by $9 billion in donor pledges, Yemen remains a critical focus.

The IRC's Ongoing Commitment to Yemen

Since its response effort ramped up in 2015, the IRC has been at the forefront of humanitarian aid in Yemen, offering vital healthcare, nutrition services, and support in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). With a commitment to building long-term resilience, the IRC has reached over five million individuals across 11 crisis-affected regions between 2022 and 2024, emphasizing care for women, children, and marginalized groups.

Together for a Healthier Future

The IRC’s new strategy represents a beacon of hope for Yemen’s future, striving to ensure that preventable diseases do not endanger the lives of its next generation. By creating a collaborative effort to re-establish trust and spread accurate information, the IRC aims to revive the spirit of community vaccination and protect Yemen's children from preventable illnesses.