Vaccines keep children and communities safe

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is affecting families around the world. Suddenly, parents are facing an urgent challenge: how to protect themselves and their children from a rapidly spreading infectious disease.

For many years vaccines provide protection to other highly contagious and deadly but preventable diseases such as measles and polio. Vaccines work and are safe. 

The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine has been in use for over 45 years and has prevented over 20 million deaths in the past 20 years alone. Polio vaccinations have brought the world on the brink of eradicating this vicious disease

All vaccines go through rigorous safety testing, including clinical trials, before they are approved for the public. Countries will only register and distribute vaccines that meet rigorous quality and safety standards. If you want to know more about vaccines, please read through these Frequently Asked Questions.

As COVID-19 disrupts daily routines around the Globe, you as parents or caretakers of children may be wondering whether you can still can get your children vaccinated during these times. The answer is yes and we strongly urge you to contact your health provider and ensure that your children follow the recommended National immunization schedule. 

The science is clear. Vaccines are safe, effective and life-saving tools to prevent outbreaks. #VaccinesWork