Immunisation protects and builds population immunity

JOHANNESBURG - The common cold, flu, measles and polio were once life-threatening diseases, but vaccines have saved millions of lives.

Regular vaccinations have protected children and adults from life-altering diseases such as polio that could leave one paralysed.

Spokesperson for the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, Dwayne Evans, said that vaccines are some of the most powerful tools humanity has in fighting against infectious diseases.

"The department regularly conducts vaccine drives across the province, especially in communities where the vaccine uptake may be lower. These drives are aligned with national health priorities, including the recent campaign for measles and HPV."

He adds that immunisation protects the person who receives the vaccine and helps build population immunity.

"In addition, catch-up immunisation forms part of our EPI or Expanded Program on Immunisation. This allows health care workers to bring a child's vaccinations up to date, if any scheduled doses have been missed."