A mass immunization campaign to protect children from measles in the aftermath of Cyclone Pam was successfully completed by the Ministry of Health, Vanuatu with the support of the Government of Australia, Save the Children, United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), World Health Organization (WHO) and World Vision.
“We are pleased that so many of our children are now safe from measles,” said Mr Viran Tovu, Chair of the Cyclone Pam Health Cluster’s response, at the Ministry of Health. “We will continue over the coming months to focus on measles control and on strategies to prevent future outbreaks.”
The vaccination campaign reached more than 95% of the children targeted in Efate, Tanna, Santo and the most affected of the Shepherd Islands. Nearly 24 000 children, ranging from 6 months to 5 years, were vaccinated against measles, and given vitamin A supplementation and deworming treatment.
“This is an important achievement for the children of Vanuatu and a great example of governments and international organizations working together to protect children,” said Ridwan Gustiana, Immunisation Officer from UNICEF.
In the wake of Cyclone Pam, infectious disease outbreaks have become a more serious risk in Vanuatu, especially with so many people living in crowded conditions, with limited access to safe water and sanitation facilities.
World Immunization Week
The success of the campaign is welcome news on World Immunization Week, held annually in the last week of April . Immunizations prevent 2 – 3 million deaths per year globally and protect many more from illness and disability.
“Thanks to this successful campaign, children are now protected from a dangerous disease,” said WHO epidemiologist Achyut Shrestha. “We will continue to support the Ministry of Health in promoting immunization to prevent disease and keep kids safe.”
Measles is deadly
Measles is one of the leading causes of death among young children, even though a safe and inexpensive vaccine has been available for decades. In 2013, there were 145 700 measles deaths globally – about 400 deaths every day.
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus in the paramyxovirus family. It is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth or throat of infected people. Initial symptoms include high fever, runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth. After a few days, a rash develops, starting on the face and upper neck and gradually spreading.
Poorly nourished young children are prone to severe measles, especially those with insufficient vitamin A or an immune system weakened by other diseases.
During 2000-2013, measles vaccination prevented an estimated 15.6 million deaths worldwide.