Vaccine security

In 2001, UNICEF developed an organizational-wide objective of vaccine security – to ensure an uninterrupted, sustainable supply of quality, affordable vaccines. The three strategies that support vaccine security - accurate forecasting, forward funding and appropriate contracting - continued to be implemented by UNICEF and donors in 2004, and have proven effective. In 2004, the availability of vaccine was significantly better than in previous years, and the 2004-2006 vaccine tender will result in a sustained supply for this period.

The vaccine market remains fragile but the supply situation has improved in comparison to the previous five years. The number of manufacturers pursuing WHO pre-qualification and UNICEF procurement has increased significantly. Thus the newly augmented supplier base promises to make a marked contribution to the future of the vaccine market in developing countries. The accuracy of UNICEF’s 2004 vaccine forecast exceeded the target of 80 per cent, and all countries procuring vaccine through UNICEF participated in the forecasting exercise. This assisted in ensuring that vaccine production met the organization’s needs and provided UNICEF with leverage to negotiate reduced prices from manufacturers.