Keep children’s vaccine schedules up-to-date

WITH measles making a comeback in some European countries, parents are being warned to ensure that their children’s immunisation schedules are up-to-date.

Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George, gave the advice ahead of today’s celebration of World Health Day.

“There is a measles outbreak in Europe, which has not only caused sickness, but people have died. This has not reached the level of media attention, but I would like Barbadians to know that with respect to the issue of measles, and also that there is a yellow fever outbreak in South America. These are things that we need to be cognisant of because we do not want new diseases here,” he said.

Pointing out that the region had been declared measles free several years ago, he said that it was once again a threat as persons were refusing to get their children vaccinated against the illness.

“Some people believe that it is fashionable to indicate that these vaccines are not efficacious or have issues, but we strongly believe and support that all young children should be up-to-date with their vaccine schedules,” George continued.

Speaking on the “Mornin’ Barbados” programme yesterday, he assured that regarding its primary healthcare arena, this country has the most comprehensive vaccine programme within the Eastern Caribbean.

In addition, he stated that there was a surveillance system in place in both the public and private sectors where indices for changes in the disease pattern were monitored, so that there would be quick action when needed.

“Our children are special and therefore we need to invest in that group… Healthcare is not easy, but it can prove successful if you have the population on your side and a whole of society approach,” he noted, adding that the private sector and non-governmental organisations must also be involved. (JMB)