Abstract

Did you have your routine vaccinations as a kid? Vaccines help prevent millions of deaths each year. But now that the new coronavirus is here, some countries may stop their vaccination programs for a while. The idea is to reduce the risk of spreading the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which causes the COVID-19 disease. But which is better: fewer coronavirus infections or making sure children get all their usual vaccinations? To find out, we used a mathematical model. We worked out the risks and benefits if health systems in Africa continue with their vaccination programs as usual. We found that if African countries give vaccinations as usual, they will prevent many children from dying. The benefits are far greater than the risk of extra deaths due to COVID-19.