City Health sees drop in children being vaccinated

The City of Cape Town’s Health Department hopes to turn the tide in the number of children being vaccinated in the metro.

Over the past two years, City clinics saw a drop in  those being fully immunised under 1yr, Hexavalent -  4th dose, and Td (tetanus, reduced dose diphtheria vaccine) at age 6 and 12.

PHPTO: CoCT

South Africa's vaccination schedule sees most vaccinations administered in the first year of a child's life. The schedule also requires booster doses at the age of six and 12.

 

COURTESY - CoCT: Vaccinations recorded over the past two years

Children are issued with the Road to Health booklet soon after birth – this document helps keep track of their vaccination status.

MMC for Community Services and Health, Patricia van der Ross, urged parents to check their children’s vaccination status, and to get those important jabs done at their nearest clinic before their young ones return to, or start their ECD or school career.

‘’The drop in the number of child vaccinations in the various categories is of concern, and it's imperative that we turn the tide. Vaccinations are critical to the health and well-being of our children, and to mitigate the risk of serious illness or complications. Less than a year ago, we had to navigate a measles outbreak in the metro. That should serve as a reminder of the importance of timely vaccinations, and booster doses.’’

‘’So as your preparation for the new school year continues, please also make time to ensure that your child's vaccinations are up to date. If you are unsure of anything, ask our clinic staff who will be able to assist,’’ she added.

 

Done by: Mitchum George