Just a week ahead of Measles and Rubella Immunization Campaign national launch to be held at Mount Moorosi next Thursday, representation of vaccination teams from health service areas across the district undergone a two-day workshop at a local lodge in Upper Moyeni until Wednesday this week.Organized by the Public Health Division of the district department of health, the workshop aimed to prepare for the nationwide immunization campaign, which targets 95% coverage of eligible children for vaccination.

Addressing participants, District Medical Officer (DMO) Dr. Makarant’si Mohlapiso emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving the 95% target.Dr. Mohlapiso outlined that each vaccination team should consist of five members that include two vaccinators, one data clerk, and two village health workers. She stressed that every team member plays a vital role in meeting daily targets.

  Presenting on Supplemental Immunization Activities, District Public Health Nurse Nursing Sister Mateboho Khoarai-Mothupi explained that it refers to provision of additional vaccine doses to close immunity gaps where routine immunization has not reached eligible children.She noted that the upcoming campaign is a nationwide catch-up initiative targeting children aged 0 to 4 years and 11 months, regardless of their previous vaccination status.She said the campaign will also integrate other child health interventions, including vitamin A supplementation, deworming, and polio vaccination.

At the same event, World Health Organization (WHO) Essential Programme on Immunization Officer Nursing Sister Manini Shabe, highlighted the importance of identifying vaccination sites and preparing for increased medical waste. She urged health centres to implement safe waste disposal measures during the campaign.