Manchester Health Department Launches Immunization Week

As it seeks to increase awareness of the importance of immunization, the Manchester Health Department launched Immunization Week on April 24.
The launch involved a march through the town of Mandeville, and a brief ceremony held at the Mandeville Park.
Senior Public Health Nurse for the parish, Dalcie Stevenson, told JIS News that the event was to ensure that parents are reminded of their responsibilities under the law to get their children immunized. She explained some of the activities for the Week.
“We will be going to different communities for the entire week, where the entire parish will be covered through house visits and mini mass. And it is our resolve to reach as many children in the 0-7 age group,” she outlined.
The Senior Public Health Nurse made a special plea to parents, stating, “it is your responsibility to see that your children are immunized. This week take them to the nearest health centre or a private doctor and have them immunized. Immunization is everybody’s business – it leads to good health. Please bring your children out, it will improve the coverage in the parish, and we want to have a healthy nation.”
Meanwhile, in her address, Medical Officer of Health for Manchester, Dr. Beverley Wright, said immunization is one of the best gifts children can receive during Child Month.
“Remember that you are here today because you have been protected from many diseases, and part of loving our children is to protect them. So, look at immunization as a protection of your children,” she stated.
Immunization Week is observed each year from April 25 to May 1.