Annual School Vaccination Campaign by Youth Health Care
The school vaccination campaign in Aruba, organized by the Youth Health Care (JGZ) division of the Department of Public Health, ensures that children receive crucial vaccines to safeguard their health. This initiative, which begins during infancy and continues into primary school, plays a vital role in maintaining high vaccination rates and preventing life-threatening diseases.
Vaccination Program for School Children
The JGZ oversees a comprehensive vaccination program that starts when children are infants at the Wit Gele Kruis consultation centers and continues as they enter school. JGZ doctors monitor the development of children and administer vaccines until they are four years old, after which vaccinations are given at preparatory and primary schools.
Key Vaccines in the School Vaccination Campaign
DKTP, MMR, Hepatitis B, and HPV Vaccines
As part of the school vaccination campaign, children receive essential vaccines such as DKTP (Diphtheria, Whooping Cough, Tetanus, Polio), MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), Hepatitis B, and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) for girls. These vaccines are critical for preventing severe diseases like cervical cancer, Polio, and Diphtheria.
Booster Shots for School-Aged Children
Most children in primary school have already received their initial doses of these vaccines during infancy. The school vaccination program provides necessary booster shots at the ages of four and ten, following the national vaccination schedule.
Parental Involvement in the Vaccination Process
Permission and Notifications
Parents of children in preparatory and primary schools who require a vaccine or booster have received a letter from JGZ. The letter outlines the necessary vaccine and requests parental consent to vaccinate their child at school. Parents are urged to return the signed consent form promptly to ensure timely vaccinations.
Why the School Vaccination Campaign is Essential
The school vaccination campaign has been in place for over 70 years, and thanks to its success, serious diseases like Polio and Diphtheria have been nearly eradicated in Aruba. This program ensures that children remain protected and healthy, preventing the spread of illnesses that once caused severe disabilities or even death.
JGZ emphasizes that while they offer multiple vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine is not included in this school vaccination program.
Image credit: gobierno.aw
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