Childhood vaccination schedules in Europe vary widely. Is this a problem?

Childhood vaccination programmes in Europe are basically very safe and effective. On the other hand there are very large differences between countries in the way they are organised. In this paper we analyse the immunisation schedules used in 29 European countries to highlight similarities and differences. One of the most evident differences is the total number of doses administered under 18 years of age, which ranges between 4 and 7 if we consider DT-containing vaccines. Any change in vaccination schedules is associated with costs. Thus, this process is worthy only if it can lead in the long run to an overall improvement in the national vaccination programmes. National sovereignty in the area of vaccination programmes prevails; therefore any step forward will be feasible only if consensus in Europe is reached.