Health Minister Launches Integrated Vaccination Campaign in Aden

Health Minister Launches Integrated Vaccination Campaign in Aden

Aden, Yemen – Today, Dr. Qassem Baheeb, the Minister of Public Health and Population, officially launched the first phase of an integrated vaccination campaign in Aden, Yemen’s temporary capital. This initiative aligns with the Global Immunization Week and seeks to enhance vaccination coverage while expanding access to essential maternal and child health services in designated provinces.

Campaign Overview

The vaccination campaign is set to run for six days and will cover 121 districts across 15 provinces. A dedicated workforce of 8,538 health workers will conduct 2,171 vaccination sessions, offering a range of vaccines alongside health services related to nutrition and reproductive health.

Significance of the Initiative

Minister Baheeb highlighted that this campaign is a pivotal element of the ministry’s strategy to strengthen community health and mitigate vaccine-preventable diseases. He underscored the effectiveness of vaccinations in safeguarding children’s health and reducing both infection and mortality rates.

The integrated campaign includes a wide array of health services, particularly targeting regions that have experienced a surge in measles and diphtheria cases. The Minister called upon local authorities, community leaders, and media representatives to assist vaccination teams and facilitate their efforts. He assured the public that the vaccines employed in this campaign are safe, effective, and comply with international standards.

Future Vaccination Plans and Support

Dr. Ali Al-Walidi, the Undersecretary for Primary Health Care, stated that this initial round will be succeeded by three additional rounds scheduled for June, August, and October, as part of a strategic plan to bridge immunization gaps.

Furthermore, Dr. Syed Jafar, the World Health Organization representative in Yemen, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting vaccination initiatives. He commended the invaluable work of health workers on the ground and the ongoing collaboration with the ministry to enhance maternal and child health outcomes.

This vaccination campaign represents a significant advancement in Yemen’s public health strategy, focusing on the protection of vulnerable populations and the improvement of overall health metrics.