Asmara, Eritrea — The African Vaccination Week was marked in Eritrea on April 30th, with a national focus on the theme “Let Parents and the Community Work in Collaboration for Ensuring the Health of Our Children.”.
The event aimed to review and reinforce vaccination programs to combat diseases affecting children and mothers, emphasizing the importance of community engagement.
The country’s health authorities, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other international bodies, have achieved a remarkable 98% vaccination coverage rate, significantly reducing child mortality rates. This progress has been attributed to the deployment of around 90 vaccinators and over 200 community workers and supervisors, who have been instrumental in reaching remote areas through the ‘barefoot doctor’model. Eritrea’s vaccination program, which includes 14 types of vaccinations, has seen a dramatic decline in child mortality rates, from 150 per 1,000 before independence to 35% post-vaccination coverage.
This success has drawn commendations from the WHO and UNICEF, highlighting the nation’s political commitment and community-driven approach.
The celebration of African Vaccination Week also featured a general knowledge competition, recognizing the importance of education alongside health initiatives.
As the week concludes, Eritrea stands as a beacon of community collaboration and political dedication in the fight against vaccine — preventable diseases, offering a model for other African nations.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: africa
Source: Editor
