Parents in Manus urged to vaccinate their children

Manus Province has joined the global community in celebrating World Immunization Week, highlighting the life-saving importance of vaccines in protecting communities.

The annual observance recognizes immunization as one of the most powerful public health interventions, helping to prevent deadly diseases such as measles, polio, tuberculosis, whooping cough, and diphtheria.

These diseases once claimed many lives, but today they can be prevented through safe and effective vaccines that are readily available across the country, including in Manus Province.

Acting Deputy Director of Public Health at Manus Provincial Health Authority, Ms. Ella Micheal, said immunization remains a top priority for the province.

She commended frontline health workers, especially nurses, who continue to travel long distances to reach rural communities and ensure babies receive their vaccinations.

“Every child vaccinated is a life protected. Every outreach clinic conducted is a step toward a healthier future. And every health worker who travels to remote areas is a hero in this mission,” she said.

Despite ongoing efforts, Ms Micheal acknowledged that challenges remain. Some children are still missing routine vaccinations due to distance, limited access to services, and lack of awareness among parents.

She is now calling on families to take greater responsibility by bringing their children to health facilities when outreach services are not available.

“If we all understand the importance of immunization, we can work together to protect our communities. Parents must ensure their children are taken to clinics or hospitals for vaccination,” she added.

Health officials will also be present at Lorengau main market this week to provide immunization services, making it easier for parents to access vaccines for their children.