Zika update

ABSTRACT

This issue is a reminder that prevention is better than cure prevention in the form of immunization, leading a healthy lifestyle and regular medical evaluation. Prevention ensures the health of individuals, families, communities and the health system and leads to a healthy population for development. Jamaica has made great gains in the prevention of communicable diseases through immunization. Diseases such as polio, measles, rubella and diphtheria have not been seen in Jamaica for decades, eliminating deaths and disabilities associated with these illnesses, and decreasing childhood mortality rates. In 2016, the vaccination coverage for all but one vaccine was the best that it had been in five years. This achievement required the involvement of the public and private health sectors in giving, recording and reporting vaccine administration; and parents, guardians and teachers being vigilant to ensure that our children are appropriately vaccinated. Continued vigilance is required, as many countries still have these diseases which may be imported and spread if less than 95% of the population is immunized.