A study in Kenya revealed that immunization with polio, BCG, DPT and measles had protective effects with respect to stunting in children under 5 years of age. In children under the age of 2 years, immunized children were 27% less likely to experience stunting when compared to unimmunized children. Additionally, children who suffered from cough or diarrhea in the 2 weeks prior to the study showed an 80-90% higher probability of being underweight or experiencing wasting.
Tuberculosis/BCG
Vaccination can save millions of dollars by preventing antibiotic resistant infections
The US CDC estimates that antibiotic resistant pneumococcal infections in the US add $96 million to the costs of treatment each year.
Vaccines can help control the spread of antibiotic resistance
The US CDC identifies the use of vaccines as one of the 4 critical steps for controlling the spread of antibiotic resistance.
Vaccination linked to higher IQ and language scores
Vaccination of children in the Philippines against 6 diseases was found to significantly increase IQ and language scores (compared to children receiving no vaccinations) and was estimated to have a 21% rate of return.
Vaccinated children performed better on several cognitive tests
In a study of immunization in the Philippines, children vaccinated against 6 diseases performed significantly better on verbal reasoning, math, and language tests than those who were unvaccinated. (note: Researchers did not find an association with physical growth.)