The Greater Accra Regional Hospital's Dr Emmanuel Addipa-Adapoe has emphasised the Importance of vaccinations in children in the prevention of diseases in schools and communities.

Dr Emmanuel Addipa-Adapoe, the Senior Medical Officer of Public Health at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital at a training workshop organized by the African Media and Malaria Research Network [AMMREN] on vaccine uptake in Ghana for selected journalists nationwide, highlighted the concerning issue of unvaccinated children, citing it as a growing worry for public health.

Dr Addipa-Adapoe emphasised that the rise in Univac (unvaccinated) children poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of the population. He stressed that parents play a crucial role in ensuring their children receive all recommended vaccinations as advised by healthcare professionals.

"Univac children are a source of worry for us in the public health sector. Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and protect our children from serious illnesses," stated Dr. Addipa-Adapoe.

Dr. Addipa-Adapoe underlined the importance of timely and complete vaccinations for children. He urged parents to take proactive steps in safeguarding their children's health by adhering to vaccination schedules recommended by healthcare providers.

"Vaccinations not only protect individual children but also contribute to the overall health of the community by preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases," he added.

Ghana, like many countries, faces challenges in achieving optimal vaccination coverage, partly due to misinformation and misconceptions about vaccines. Dr Addipa-Adapoe highlighted the need for continuous education and awareness campaigns to address these issues and encourage vaccine uptake.

"Parents must understand that vaccines are safe, effective, and crucial for the health and well-being of their children. By vaccinating our children, we are investing in a healthier future for our nation," Dr. Addipa-Adapoe reiterated.

The workshop served as a platform to discuss strategies to improve vaccination rates across Ghana and to empower journalists to effectively communicate accurate information about vaccines to the public.

Dr. Emmanuel Addipa-Adapoe's call to action resonates as a reminder to parents and caregivers nationwide. Ensuring children receive recommended vaccinations not only protects their health but also strengthens the resilience of the entire community against preventable diseases.

The workshop organized by the African Media and Malaria Research Network [AMMREN] was in partnership with the Ghana Health Service and the World Health Organisation.