Kingston, Jamaica, April 25, 2024 (PAHO) - On April 24, 2024, Jamaica celebrated the launch of the 22nd Vaccination Week in the Americas at the Portmore Community College. Held under the theme, "Engage now to protect your future #GetVax", the event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of immunization by ramping up vaccination efforts in the countries of the Americas.
Led by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, this year's campaign highlighted the support that the event brings to the community by making vaccination services available in a convenient and comprehensive format.
The national focus aimed to increase the administration of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to females aged 9-26 years old and males aged 9-14 years old, as well as pneumococcal (PCV and PPSV) vaccination for high-risk and other target groups.
During the ceremony, Ian Stein, PAHO/WHO representative, emphasized the need to redouble efforts to address persistent barriers to vaccination, ensuring that no one is left behind. This involves strengthening health systems by enhancing vaccination resources and addressing hesitancy and misinformation surrounding vaccines and their efficacy.
Mr. Stein highlighted the benefits of promoting HPV vaccination among the youth, citing that cervical cancer ranks as one of the most common cancers among women in Jamaica and the second most frequent cancer among women aged 15 to 44 (HPV Information Centre).
"PAHO will continue to provide the technical support needed to help Jamaica strengthen its disease surveillance system and expand vaccination coverage throughout the island to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases," he affirmed.
In keeping with the campaign's objectives, members of the public also benefited from free pap smear tests, administration of the HPV vaccine, and general screenings during the Vax Fest health fair.
The launch of the Vaccination Week in the Americas in Jamaica underscores the country's commitment to promoting immunization as a crucial public health intervention, ensuring the protection and well-being of its population against vaccine-preventable diseases.
