The Pan American Health Organization has sounded an urgent alarm over rising diphtheria cases across the Americas, signalling a critical breakdown in routine immunisation services. The resurgence of this vaccine-preventable disease underscores substantial gaps in vaccination coverage across multiple countries in the region. PAHO has called upon member states to strengthen vaccination efforts and achieve the 85-90% coverage threshold necessary to maintain herd immunity and protect vulnerable populations. The diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) vaccine remains highly effective, offering 95% protection when the full primary series is completed. Disruptions to immunisation programmes, declining vaccine uptake, and vaccine hesitancy have collectively driven populations below protective immunity levels. Public health officials emphasise that sustained vaccination campaigns—including booster doses every 10 years for adults—are essential to prevent further disease spread and protect community health across the region.
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