The GAVI Alliance announced it will provide funding for 16 more developing countries to introduce rotavirus vaccines and 18 more countries to introduce pneumococcal vaccines, noting that the roll out of rotavirus vaccines across Africa has already begun in Sudan. GAVI CEO Seth Berkley M.D. said, “Thanks to our donors and partners, the GAVI Alliance is now delivering on its promise to protect more children across the developing world against rotavirus, pneumococcal disease and other life-threatening yet preventable diseases. The death toll of rotavirus and pneumococcal infections in Africa is particularly devastating, and this is where these vaccines will make the most significant impact, not only in lives saved, but also in terms of healthy lives lived. Immunisation enables good health and healthy people are more productive and ultimately fuel economic growth.” GAVI also approved applications from five countries for pentavalent vaccine, and 12 for other types of vaccines (see detailed list of approved countries). http://www.who.int/immunization/newsroom/press/vaccines_to_reach_37_more_countries/en/index.html