Contrary to prevailing perceptions, the Department of Health would like to re-assure parents, guardians and general members of the public about the safety of the current measles vaccination programme and vaccination for other diseases in general.
So far, the department has learnt that some parents are reluctant to have their children vaccinated for measles because of perceptions that the vaccine contains some agents that are dangerous for children. Parents are advised that there are no truths in such claims. If anything, such claims can deny children their right to healthcare services freely provided by government and in fact expose them to preventable diseases that may be fatal.
The department would also like to re-assure parents that there is no truth in claims that the same needle is used in vaccinating more than one child and thus expose them to risks. Healthcare workers including nurses who vaccinate children are fully trained in performing such duties and there are strict protocols that are followed in this regard.
Generally, the department is encouraged by the response to its vaccination campaign so far but would still appeal to parents and guardians to ensure that children under their custody are vaccinated not only for measles but for other diseases such as polio for instance. It is through such campaigns that the high infant and under-five mortality can be reduced in our country.
For more information please contact:
Fidel Hadebe
Tel: 012 312 0663
Cell: 079 517 3333
Issued by: Department of Health
21 October 2009
