Sibilia Quilici
Executive Director, Vaccines Europe
Vaccine innovation can help address the health challenges of today and tomorrow, thereby safeguarding people’s health and contributing to a more prosperous Europe.
Our society faces significant health threats, from antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and infection-related cancers to challenges brought about by the ageing of the population and climate change. New innovative solutions are needed to tackle these challenges.
Vaccines in development
There are currently 103 vaccines in the pipeline of Vaccines Europe member companies, covering a range of disease areas with a variety of platform technologies. Diversification of vaccine technologies is important for developing tailored solutions to combat different pathogens. It also ensures that people are provided with a choice of vaccines to meet their needs (age, health status, genetics, etc.) and cater to their individual preferences.
Tackling cancer and acute respiratory infections
Every year, in Europe, there are 53,000 new cervical cancer cases attributed to HPV infections and over 60,000 deaths due to liver cancer, which can be caused by a hepatitis B infection. Both infections can be prevented by vaccination. The recent EU Council Recommendations on vaccine-preventable cancers show the progress towards the ambitious targets set out in the European Beating Cancer Plan and pave the way towards elimination of vaccine-preventable cancers.
Every year, in Europe, there are 53,000 new cervical cancer cases attributed to HPV infections.
Similar efforts are also needed in other disease areas. For example, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) poses a significant burden on healthcare systems; the immunisations that are in development or have already been approved are game-changing. However, the right infrastructure is necessary to deploy these new immunisations across Europe and ensure everyone at risk is protected against RSV.
Fighting antimicrobial resistance
In the EU/EEA region, the health burden of infections due to AMR is comparable to that of influenza, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS combined. Globally, AMR is a major public health threat, which requires the use of every available tool to minimise its burden.
Vaccination is now recognised as vital in addressing AMR, with potential to curb the spread of resistant infections and reduce the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials. This is an exciting avenue as new innovative vaccines against resistant pathogens are in development.
Immunisation is paramount for building more resilient and sustainable health systems, serving as a powerful tool that prevents sickness, saves lives, saves money and contributes to strong economic growth. It is an investment that delivers innovation, health and prosperity.