For the first time in history, these new vaccines are also reaching people in the developing world soon after they're available in wealthier countries, eliminating what used to be a delay of 15 years or more.

The 2012 G8 summit offers an important moment for global leaders to signal to the rest of the world that immunization and vaccine development programs are a top priority. They should not let this opportunity pass them by.

The power of vaccines is evident around the world, but nowhere will it be more so than in the over 30 developing countries that will begin -- for the first time -- to immunize their children with new rotavirus and pneumococcal vaccines.

For someone who has worked diligently for over a decade to accelerate access to new life-saving pneumonia vaccines, announcements like this week's make it all seem worth it.

Finding the right balance between affordable prices, innovation, and supply security will require hard work, patience, and a long-term view.