Solomon Islands government will officially launch a Pentavalent Vaccine next month.
World Health Organization Country Liaison Officer, Dr William Adu-Krow said the vaccines will be used against hepatitis B, meningitis caused by Hemophilus Influenza, Diphtheria, Pertusis (Whooping cough) and Tetanus."We have always had Diphtheria, Pertusis and tetanus (DPT) as one injection but now we have one injection for the 5 diseases, which is easier on the kids and good for compliance," said Dr. Adu-Krow.
Dr. Adu-Krow explained that the Hemophilus influenzae bacterium (Hib) disease causes serious disease in young children especially children less than 2 years of age to the age of 5.
He mentioned that the vaccine will certainly save mothers from going to the clinic several times to get vaccination shots for their children "because with one shot, five diseases are covered."
"It will help to improve compliance as well," added Dr. Adu-Krow.
The vaccine would provide more protection for children against diseases including pneumonia and meningitis.
Solomon Times understands that the vaccine would be free of charge in all government health facilities.