How climate change is changing vaccination planning

2023 was a milestone year. Every major climate agency pronounced it the hottest ever recorded, with average temperatures almost 1.5°C higher than in the preindustrial age. It was also notable for forcing a change in vaccine strategy.

Last year, for the first time, the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunizations (GAVI) said that it was actively considering the effects of climate change on its portfolio of vaccines for children in low income countries.

“There’s growing recognition of the role and influence of climate change on infectious diseases—and, concurrently, a sense of urgency in enhancing our preparedness for climate influenced, vaccine preventable diseases,” said Maya Malarski, a senior manager on GAVI’s policy team.

Rising temperatures, along with increasing precipitation and humidity, are expanding the geographical range of vectorborne and waterborne diseases. Those …