3.4m children targeted for immunisation
ABOUT 3.4 million children are expected to be immunised this week for the second child health week and US$4.4 million will be spent on the exercise in partnership between Government and a grant from the UN agencies.
Health Minister Chitalu Chilufya said this year’s exercise is happening during the time of Covid-19 and that all health practitioners have been urged to observe guidelines.
Dr Chilufya disclosed that Zambia lost 41 children from measles last year in Lavushimanda in Muchinga Province and had pockets of outbreaks across the country.
Dr Chilufya however said said the government would ensure that no child is left behind during this exercise to protect the under-fives against the two diseases.
He said this when he launched the second
round child health week immunisation against Measles and Rubella for children from nine Months to five years in Lusaka’s Chawama Township yesterday.
He appealed to all parents to ensure that they take their children to the nearest health centres.
Dr Chilufya said child health week was an important event because health personnel would ensure that children were screened and receive supplements.
He observed that the event would also be offering HIV test and treatment services, therefore anyone can visit the health facility.
Meanwhile, United international Children’s fund (NICEF) deputy representative, Malti Gandhi said the UN agencies have pledged continued support of health services to children so that they grow healthy even in the face of Covid-19.
And the World Health Organisation representative Dr Shikanga Otipo said it is providing technical support on the prevention of Measles and Rubella in Zambia.
Meanwhile, Nkoloma ward 1 Councillor and PF chairperson for Chawama, Tasila Mwansa encouraged all mothers to ensure they took their children for immunisation this week.