Uganda Launches Nationwide Yellow Fever Vaccination Campaign
KAMPALA – Uganda has taken a significant step in safeguarding its population against the threat of yellow fever by rolling out a nationwide vaccination campaign. The mosquito-borne disease has long posed a risk to the country, prompting authorities to take action.
Dr. Michael Baganizi, an official in charge of immunization at the health ministry, reported that by the end of April, 12.2 million out of the targeted 14 million people had been vaccinated. This massive effort aims to protect the population and prevent future outbreaks of the disease.
As part of the initiative, Uganda will now require all travelers entering and leaving the country to have a yellow fever vaccination card, in line with international health regulations. This measure is expected to encourage more people to get vaccinated, especially in the face of vaccine hesitancy in the region.
The free single-dose vaccine has been made available to Ugandans between the ages of 1 and 60 at various vaccination centers across the country. Previously, individuals had to pay for the yellow fever shot at private clinics, but now it is accessible to all.
Yellow fever is a serious illness caused by a virus transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can be fatal. Uganda’s vaccination campaign is part of a global strategy to eliminate yellow fever by 2026, aiming to protect millions of people in Africa and the Americas.
Despite some challenges, such as vaccine hesitancy and concerns about the quality of vaccines, Ugandan officials remain committed to promoting the importance of immunization. With ongoing efforts and community engagement, the country hopes to create a safer and healthier environment for its citizens.