Improving global vaccine accessibility

Abstract

Although the beneficial impact of vaccination is well established, developing countries often rely upon humanitarian support to obtain access to routine immunization schedules. Furthermore, philanthropic funders require that vaccines be supplied at prices that are drastically lower than that charged in developed nations. This pricing requirement arises due to both the massive volume of vaccines needed and the logistics necessary to ensure their integrity (i.e. the cold chain). Cost-prohibitive vaccine formulation strategies, especially for newer vaccines, along with the lack of infrastructure in developing nations can further complicate this process. Extensive research is being conducted to develop novel technological platforms that overcome each of these accessibility impediments. This review provides an overview of the humanitarian organizations and technological developments that are dedicated to improving global healthcare by increasing vaccine accessibility.