New funding mechanism for global immunization efforts

September 20, 2005 by PATH

Finance ministers from France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom recently initiated an innovative funding mechanism that could save up to 5 million lives over the next 10 years. The International Finance Facility for Immunization (IFFIm) will raise $4 billion through bond markets for the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI). The money will be used for immunization efforts in 72 countries—to eradicate diseases including polio, hepatitis B, measles, diphtheria, yellow fever, and tetanus.

PATH applauds the launch of this innovative fund, which is unique through its use of bonds to support immunization programs through GAVI over the long term. Immunization remains one of the most cost-effective ways to improve health and well-being throughout the world.

For more information, visit the IFFIm website: www.iffim.com.