First tetanus toxoid supplementary immunization campaign underway in Papua New Guinea
3 April 2012 - Papua New Guinea has renewed its commitment to achieving maternal and neonatal tetanus elimination in the near future. This is also a relevant approach for reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in line with the recent initiatives of ensuring safe delivery through skilled birth attendants in the country. On 2 April 2012, the Secretary for Health on behalf of the Prime Minister, launched a nationwide tetanus supplementary immunization activity (SIA); together with a national SIA for measles and polio. Over the next few weeks around 1.8 million women from 15-45 years will be targeted with tetanus toxoid. At the same time 800,000 children under three years old will receive measles vaccine; together with oral polio vaccine, vitamin A and deworming tablets as eligible. This campaign provides a platform for the government of Papua New Guinea, development partners, non-governmental and civil society organizations to collaborate their efforts for an integrated approach to optimize the use of resources. Apart from technical assistance, WHO Papua New Guinea provided the required vitamin A and albendazole tablets for this campaign.