The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health will embark on a vaccination ‘Catch-up Campaign’ drive through the various media platforms starting from 24 to 30 April as part of the World immunisation and vaccination programme for 2021.
In a statement, the department said the drive will spread awareness for parents and caregivers encouraging them to visit their nearest vaccination point for their children’s vaccines. “All children less than five years of age, from zero to 59 months who have missed their immunisation doses will receive their missed doses. The campaign also aims to specifically target those children who have never been immunised during routine immunisation sessions. “The campaign will incorporate child-care services as well as target all expecting mothers to encourage them to vaccinate their children once born,” the statement read. According to the department, vaccination is a safe and effective way to prevent disease and save lives. “Vaccines protect against at least 20 diseases, such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza and measles. When children get vaccinated, they aren’t just protecting themselves, but also those around them. The department encourages all parents and care-givers to take advantage of the catch up campaign,” said the statement.
