Introduction to Vaccination Week
JUBA, (Eye Radio) – As the African Vaccination Week is marked, UNICEF, World Health Organization (WHO), and the national Ministry of Health are encouraging parents and guardians to take their children for vaccination, assuring them that vaccines are safe and effective in saving lives.
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Aping Kuluel, UNICEF Social and Behavior Change Officer, stated that parents and caretakers should be aware of the importance of vaccinating their children on time. He said failure to immunize children will expose them to dangerous diseases and leave a long-term burden on the family. “We urge all the communities to make sure that as they understand that immunization is important, they need to make sure that they don’t miss this opportunity,” Kuluel said on Eye Radio’s Dawn Show.
New Vaccines Introduced
The national immunization program has introduced additional vaccines this year to protect children from measles, pneumonia, and diarrhea. The new vaccines introduced with the support of WHO, UNICEF, and the global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi) are PCV, the Rotavirus vaccine, and the second dose of Measles-Containing Vaccine MCV2.
Addressing Misinformation
Dr. Eric RURANGWA, the WHO Immunization Hub Coordinator, cautioned the public against misinformation and disinformation around immunization. He said people should seek clarifications or questions from experts for vaccination. Eric added an appeal to parents to take their children for vaccination. “The vaccines are available at the health facilities and the healthcare workers are trained to give these vaccines safely to children. We request the mothers to bring their children to health facilities to get vaccinated before the two years of life, because this protects and we have the immunity for the communities.”
Call to Action
George Legge, the Director of Expanded Programme on Immunization at the national ministry of health, reaffirmed that “it is very important” for parents to take their children for immunization. “The vaccines are effective and it is very important for mothers and fathers to bring their children for vaccination. We are going to a one-week campaign on immunization, make sure your child receives measles vaccine.” He also urged everyone to play their part in ensuring that children are vaccinated, saying “If you go to the house make sure you ask, has this child been vaccinated? Do your part and make sure the children are vaccinated and this vaccine is safe and effective.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, vaccination is a crucial step in protecting children from dangerous diseases and ensuring their overall health and well-being. With the introduction of new vaccines and the ongoing efforts of UNICEF, WHO, and the national Ministry of Health, parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of these life-saving measures. By doing so, they can help prevent the spread of diseases and create a healthier community for everyone. Remember, vaccines are safe, effective, and available at health facilities, so make sure to take your child for vaccination and play your part in keeping them healthy and protected.
