Vientiane: The Vientiane Province has successfully concluded its child vaccination drive, surpassing its initial goals.
According to Lao News Agency, a recent report from the Vientiane Provincial Health Department highlights the campaign's achievements, noting that the initiative significantly exceeded its targets.
For the polio vaccination effort, health workers aimed to vaccinate 45,834 children. The first phase of the campaign commenced on March 2, reaching 46,126 children, which is 101% of the target. The second phase, from April 27 to May 10, saw 47,158 children vaccinated, amounting to 103% of the intended goal. Meanwhile, for measles and rubella, the campaign targeted 10,463 children between nine and 59 months in the districts of Phonhong, Kasi, and Viengkham. The campaign achieved 99% coverage with 10,384 children receiving the vaccine.
The vaccination efforts spanned 741 service points across all 11 districts of the province, comprising 62 fixed locations, 659 mobile points, and 20 overnight mobile teams. This setup facilitated access to families in remote areas. The field operations were executed by 216 medical personnel, supported by 741 village volunteers.
Dr. Vanpheng Phanthanalay, Director of the Vientiane Provincial Health Department, attributed the campaign's success to strong leadership and widespread community involvement. He acknowledged the efforts of local authorities at various levels in mobilizing residents and raising awareness about the vaccines' importance. District officials were commended for preparing detailed lists of target children, while village volunteers played a crucial role in guiding medical teams.
Going forward, Dr. Vanpheng stated that his department plans to collaborate with the Lao Women's Union, the Lao Front for National Development, and local authorities to enhance public education on routine immunizations. Routine vaccines protecting against 10 diseases will continue to be available weekly at fixed points, including the provincial hospital, district hospitals, and local health centers. Additionally, monthly village-level immunization rounds will occur from the 3rd to the 15th of every month.
With the onset of the rainy season, Dr. Vanpheng also cautioned about the potential risk of dengue fever. Health teams are actively conducting educational campaigns to urge residents to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and adopt preventive measures to avert outbreaks.