Cuts to UK vaccine funding could lead to huge numbers' of child deaths overseas
Briefly

The Guardian reports that reductions in the UK's overseas aid, particularly for vaccination programs, could lead to catastrophic consequences for children in impoverished countries. Gavi, the Global Alliance for Vaccines, warns even minimal cuts would significantly decrease the number of children vaccinated and increase preventable deaths. The impending cutbacks follow the resignation of international development minister Anneliese Dodds and are part of a broader strategy to channel funds towards defense spending. Advocacy groups are raising alarms about these potential outcomes, emphasizing the vital importance of maintaining health funding to avert a humanitarian disaster.
The UK's proposed cuts in foreign aid could lead to millions fewer vaccinations, prompting fears that hundreds of thousands of children in low-income countries will die as a consequence.
Previous data showed that even steady funding for Gavi would mean 8 million fewer vaccinations, resulting in around 200,000 preventable child deaths.
Aid agencies warn that a 40% cut to funding could further escalate the number of preventable deaths in the world's poorest countries.
The UK government is facing mounting pressure over its overseas aid cuts, particularly concerning vaccination programs that are vital for child health globally.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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