A Global Perspective of Childhood Vaccinations: Past, Present, and Future-From Smallpox to mRNA.

Childhood immunisation is one of the most successful public health interventions in history, preventing millions of deaths and substantially reducing global child mortality. This mini-review summarises the historical development of childhood vaccines, the role of global coordination in expanding immunisation coverage, and the innovations that have enabled safe and effective vaccine delivery to children worldwide. It also examines persistent and emerging challenges, including inequities, limited manufacturing capacity, vaccination hesitancy, and climate-related disruptions. Finally, the review highlights opportunities in the current vaccine pipeline and the importance of sustained global collaboration to ensure equitable protection for all children.