Dear Editor,
I would like to commend the Ministry of Health for its outstanding efforts to improve vaccination coverage throughout Guyana. This achievement highlights the Government of Guyana’s strong commitment to the health and well-being of every citizen. It also demonstrates the Ministry’s dedication to strengthening our healthcare infrastructure and enhancing our resilience against preventable diseases.
Over the past four years, the Ministry’s leadership has played a crucial role in enhancing access to essential vaccinations, significantly contributing to a decrease in the prevalence of numerous preventable diseases. This proactive approach has been pivotal in protecting vulnerable communities across the region.
As of 2023, vaccination coverage rates are impressive. The BCG vaccine, which protects against tuberculosis, has an outstanding coverage rate of 98%. The Pentavalent vaccine, which combines five vaccines in one—diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Inactivated Polio Vaccine, and Haemophilus influenzae type b—boast a remarkable coverage rate of 99%. Similarly, the Polio vaccine, critical for eradicating poliovirus, also has a coverage rate of 99%.
The Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13), essential for preventing severe pneumonia in infants and young children, has reached a coverage rate of 98%. Moreover, the Rotavirus vaccine, which helps prevent severe diarrhoea and dehydration, shows an impressive coverage rate of 98%. The MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine has achieved perfect coverage at 100%, reflecting the success of efforts to eliminate these diseases.
Additionally, the Yellow Fever vaccine, vital for protection against this potentially fatal disease, has a coverage rate of 98%. The Hepatitis Birth Dose, administered to newborns to prevent hepatitis B infection, has a coverage rate of 86%. Lastly, the Tetanus-Diphtheria (DT) vaccination for pregnant women has reached an impressive 100%, ensuring the protection of both mothers and their newborns.
The Ministry’s achievements underscore its dedication to public health and continuous efforts to enhance vaccination rates, thereby protecting the community’s health and well-being. Initiatives such as community outreach programmes, mobile vaccination campaigns, and collaboration with international health organisations like PAHO and UNICEF have been crucial in ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their location, receives essential immunisations.
I would like to express my gratitude to all the health professionals, volunteers, and partners who contributed to this achievement. The Ministry of Health’s commitment to safeguarding our population’s health and promoting a healthier Guyana is commendable.
With sincere gratitude,
Peggy Garib
