Vaccination challenges
DOCTOR Simon Stratchan, a distinguished paediatrician, author, and CEO of the South African Paediatrics Association (SAPPF), underscores the significance of vaccination in protecting children from lifethreatening illnesses. With the aim of promoting vaccination awareness and advocating for high immunisation rates, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community leaders unite to emphasise the importance of preventive measures against preventable diseases.
Doctor Stratchan sheds light on key issues surrounding vaccination efforts in South Africa. “Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have in preventing the spread of infectious diseases,” Dr Stratchan affirms. “They not only safeguard individuals but also contribute to the broader public health by reducing the risk of outbreaks.” When asked about the challenges in ensuring widespread vaccination coverage, Dr Stratchan highlights missed opportunities to vaccinate, limited access to vaccination clinics, and the persistence of antivaccination sentiments fuelled by misinformation. “It’s crucial to address these challenges through collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organisations,” he asserts. Regarding vaccine availability and accessibility, Dr. Stratchan reassures the public that comprehensive efforts are in place to maintain adequate vaccine stocks. “Manufacturers, provincial health departments, and vaccinators work tirelessly to prevent stockouts and ensure that vaccines for preventable diseases are readily available,” he explains. The author emphasises the role of parents and caregivers in advocating for vaccination and ensuring their children receive necessary immunisations. “Parents play a pivotal role in protecting their children’s health by adhering to vaccination schedules and addressing any concerns or misconceptions they may have,” he advises. Addressing concerns about the flu vaccine and immune system boosting, Dr. Stratchan clarifies that the flu vaccine specifically protects against the influenza virus and underscores its necessity. With Medical Insurance brought to you by Dis-Chem Health in partnership with Centriq Insurance, one flu vaccination is covered every year for individuals older than six months. The vaccination can be done at any Dis-Chem or pharmacy clinic in the Prime Cure Network. He dispels the notion of immune system boosting for children, emphasizing the importance of vaccination against specific diseases. Dr. Stratchan calls for sustained vaccination efforts to maintain high immunisation rates. “Vaccination is not just a one-time event; it’s an ongoing commitment to protecting our children from preventable diseases,” he emphasises. Enjoy screening benefits such eight visits under the standard plan and unlimited visits with the comprehensive plan, to consult with a nurse at a Dis-Chem clinic. These visits cater to various needs such as coughs, colds, flu, asthma, skin rashes, allergies, nebulization, minor wound care, and baby weigh-ins and check-ups with the medical iInsurance. He urges trust in the science of vaccinology and underscores the critical role of vaccination in promoting child health and wellbeing, “don’t wait, vaccinate” he asserts. Medical Insurance brought to you by Dis-Chem Health in partnership with Centriq Insurance allows you to use your Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicine Benefit for medicine that the nurse recommends you take, as long as the medicine is on the Medicine Formulary List.
T&Cs: Dis-Chem Health is neither a Medical Scheme nor an Insurer. The administrator for Dis-Chem Health is Kaelo Risk (Pty) Ltd, an authorized Financial Services Provider (FSP 36931). Insurance products under Dis-Chem Health are insured by Centriq Insurance Company Limited, a licensed non-life insurer and an authorized Financial Services Provider (FSP 3417). Lifestyle Benefits are provided by Kaelo, with service providers contracted to them.