health
6 May 2007
The Department of Health of South Africa has received double recognition for
its role in global public health.
Its representative in Geneva was appointed an Assistant-General (AG) of the
World Health Organisation (WHO), while the Department received an award for its
contribution to the implementation of the Vaccine Vial Monitors (VVM) aimed at
improving access to immunisation.
A VVM is a tool which clearly warns if a vaccine is likely to have been
damaged by heat. Its use over the last 10 years has made it possible for more
children in more places to have access to vaccine.
A recognition certificate was received on behalf of the Department of Health
by its Deputy Director-General Ms Nthari Matsau during a celebration event at
the WHO Headquarters in Geneva at the weekend. The event marked the 10th
anniversary of the successful implementation of VVM to improve access to
immunisation.
"The Republic of South Africa's involvement in the early stages of
development, through the conduct of field studies for the implementation of
VVM, was critical for the successful 10 years. The WHO would like to award the
Republic of South Africa with a recognition certificate for its contribution to
global public health," the WHO said in an invitation letter to the Department
of Health.
According to the WHO, the VVM saved US$5 million worth of vaccines annually
through reduced wastage, facilitated immunisation outreach, increased
immunisation access and coverage as well as pinpointed cold chain problems and
helped to effectively manage vaccine stocks.
Vaccine vial monitors have played a crucial role in overcoming challenges
related to safe delivery of vaccines especially in hot climates where vaccine
refrigeration is weak or nonexistent.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health representative to Geneva, Ms Daisy
Mafubelu, has commenced her duties as the Assistant Director-General of the WHO
responsible for family and community health.
Ms Mafubelu was appointed by Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang as a
South African health attaché in Geneva in 2003. Before that she was a Deputy
Director-General at the Free State Department of Health.
The Department of Health wishes Ms Mafubelu all the best in her new role and
we believe that her appointment to this very senior position at the WHO will
ensure that the health interest of the African continent is represented at the
highest level of this global health organisation.
Contact:
Sibani Mngadi
Spokesperson for the Department of Health
Cell: 082 772 0161
Issued by: Department of Health
6 May 2007
