The establishment of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) 50 years ago was a pivotal moment in the history of public health and has saved millions of lives globally every year. In 1974, only 5% of the world’s children had been vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Today, that figure has increased to nearly 85% of children worldwide and 94% in the WHO European Region. 
Joint statement by:
Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe
Ms Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia
Ms Stella Kyriakides, European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety
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