The National Department of Health (NDOH) has acknowledged the World Health Organization (WHO) Papua New Guinea for its technical lead and support in the planning and implementation of the recently completed nationwide Measles, Rubella, Polio, and Vitamin A (MR-bOPV/Vit A) Supplementary Immunization Activity in May-July 2023.
NDOH Executive Manager-Public Health Dr Sibauk Bieb, thanked the WHO team for the commitment and, dedication despite many challenges and expressed satisfaction on the outcome of the SIA which achieved a coverage of 70 per cent of the population of children under 5 years of age.
“A near 70% coverage will certainly reduce the existing immunity gap in the population, particularly young children.”
“However, it is important to continue to focus on improving routine immunization for long-term health benefits and to prevent large Vaccine Preventable Disease (VPD) outbreaks”, said Dr Bieb.
WHO VDI Team Coordinator Dr Ananda Amarasinghe, also expressed gratitude to NDOH for recognizing the work done by WHO and highlighted the investments and lessons learnt from the SIA which will further strengthen the country’s immunization programme.
He assured the NDOH of WHO’s continued support to improve the routine immunization program under the leadership of WHO Representative Dr Sevil Huseynova.
The department, during the event presented WHO provincial consultant with a certificate of appreciation.