Pilot Assessment of Vaccination Status among Children in Cairo Governorate

Abstract

SUMMARY I mmunization programs are widely recognized as one of the most effective types of health interventions. The benefits of vaccination extend beyond prevention of specific diseases in individuals. Vaccination makes good economic sense, and meets the need to care for the weakest members of societies. Reducing global child mortality by facilitating universal access to safe vaccines of proven efficacy is a moral obligation for the international community as it is a human right for every individual to have the opportunity to live a healthier. Egypt has achieved significant progress in vaccine preventable disease control and prevention. Routine immunization coverage with the diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus vaccine 3rd dose reached more than 95% of the population. Indigenous wild poliovirus transmission was eliminated in 2006 and is monitored by ongoing environmental surveillance for wild polioviruses in a program assisted by CDC and other partners. Egypt is moving toward elimination of measles and rubella through high routine immunization coverage with two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella. Increasing the coverage rate is the most effective method for decreasing the burden of childhood vaccine preventable disease among children.