World Immunisation Week kicks off today! This year, the world celebrates 50 years since the World Health Organisation launched the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI). 

For those who might not know, EPI was first established in 1974 to target six high-risk infectious diseases - namely, poliomyelitis, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles and tuberculosis. The programme was inducted with a goal of providing universal access to lifesaving vaccines for children worldwide. 

In just five decades, EPI has saved more than 150 million lives. People of all ages in every region have benefited from this, and the programme is now expanded to encompass older children, adolescents, and adults throughout the life course against a wider spectrum of diseases. 

On this episode of Morning Shot today, Christopher Clarke, Director of Scientific Leadership at Moderna - the company that was at the forefront of vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic - shares his insights on immunisation progress around the world and how Moderna is advancing with their vaccine development. 

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced & Edited by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)

Photo credits: pixabay & its talented community of contributors