KAMPALA – Minister for State in charge of Primary Health Care, Joyce Moriku, has addressed the public on African Vaccination Week. This week takes place annually from April 24-30, 2020.
During the address at Uganda Media Centre on Wednesday, April 29, Ms Moriku stated, “Despite the COVID-19 lockdown, routine immunization services are available at all health facilities.”
Ministry of Health has thus put in place guidelines to ensure seamless flow of Immunisation services amidst the COVID-19 lockdown.
One of the guidelines outlined, is that children should be vaccinated as and when they arrive at health facilities and outreach posts without allowing a build up of numbers.
“Social distancing of at least 2m at waiting areas. All facilities are required to have handwashing equipment with soap and water or sanitizers,” she said.
Health workers, were also urged to continue sensitizing the caregivers on COVID-19 as they provide other essential health services.
These guidelines, have been put in place by the Ministry of Health, to ensure safe immunization of children without increasing the spread of Coronavirus.
However, some of the parents, have come out to request for the help of Village Health Teams (VHTs) since some people’s homes are too far away from health facilities.
This clearly indicates that some people are unable to walk to the facilities, making it difficult for them to access the services.
With all the above guidelines, however, the Ministry of Health hopes to continue carrying out immunization, despite the lockdown, so as to protect the lives of young ones against immunization- preventable diseases.
