Statement by the Foundation in Support of the 180 Countries Participating in World Immunization Week

SEATTLE--The following quote is attributable to Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

“This week, the World Health Organization is focusing global attention on vaccines. These simple, low-cost tools can save the lives of an estimated 1.4 million children each year and prevent thousands more from paralysis and disability. Vaccines are one of the best long-term investments to prevent disease and give children a healthy start to life. 

I hope that families everywhere will help celebrate Immunization Week by joining community activities to raise awareness of the value of vaccines because, simply put, vaccines save lives.”