Vaccination Week starts in Barbados

YESTERDAY, the general public heard all about the benefits and importance of vaccines, and there were some who even felt the sting.

Some children, whose immunisations were not up-to-date, got their immunisation cards checked and vaccinated, to mark Vaccination Week in the Americas 2017.

The Ministry of Health, also provided immunisations to adults, at Massy Supermarket, Warrens, St. Michael; Sky Mall, Haggatt Hall, St. Michael, and Emerald City, Six Roads, St. Philip, between 10 am and 2 pm.

The week, being celebrated in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), has been themed “Get Vax To Celebrate A Healthy Tomorrow”.

Speaking to The Barbados Advocate at Massy Warrens, Senior Health Sister in the Ministry of Health, Juleyette Serrano, said in her opinion, the public responded well to the initiative, along with the other health promotions offered at all of the outreach points, including HIV counselling and testing.

The Senior Health Sister also reminded that the week was endorsed by PAHO 15 years ago to promote the importance of vaccines to prevent some diseases; make vaccinations accessible to persons within the region, as well as to keep vaccinations current on the political agenda.

“Today emphasis is being placed on the importance and the benefits of vaccines and also to make the public aware about the types of vaccines we offer at all of our polyclinics,” Serrano said.

Other activities scheduled to be held during the week also include a church service at The People’s Cathedral, today, at 10:15 am and Open Days at all polyclinics on Tuesday, April 25, Wednesday, April 26 and Thursday, April 27. (AH)