The rapid development of Covid-19 vaccines was a historic medical triumph. But hastening the end of the pandemic may only be the beginning. The science behind Covid-19 breakthroughs could soon lead to vaccines for other infectious diseases, such as HIV and Zika. Other types of advancements in vaccine technology could also enable us to create new immunizations for anthrax, cholera, whooping cough, and hepatitis B.
By almost any measure, vaccines are among the most transformative medical technologies ever invented. Only access to clean water has had a larger impact on global health. Any disease we can prevent or suppress with a vaccine is one from which people will suffer much less -- and for which the treatment burden on our healthcare system and economy will be massively reduced. Consider that between 1994 and 2018, vaccines saved society $1.9 trillion total -- and $406 billion in direct medical costs.
Despite this enormous promise, efforts to create new and more effective vaccines still face daunting challenges. Overcoming these barriers will require new approaches to vaccine development -- as well as a concerted effort to build public confidence in these life-saving medicines.
