Tonga to re-vaccinate thousands for measles
Quoting Radio New Zealand – 13 November 2019
“Tongan health authorities could re-vaccinate up to 20,000 people against the measles after it was discovered some historical vaccinations might not be effective.
“There have been at least 177 suspected cases of measles in the country since an October outbreak was declared.
“The Chief Executive of the Ministry of Health, Siale 'Akau'ola, said of those cases, 43 had a two dose recorded history of vaccination, which was recommended for protection against the virus.
"Even though some children have two doses, they still contracted the measles. That is an interesting finding. We have been trying to trace the vaccines that have been given but they were given 15-16 years ago."
“He said the vaccines or systems could have been inadequate in the past but they were investigating the issue.
"We are assuming that the quality of the vaccines or the cold chain systems of vaccination at the time were not of the best quality that we have seen in the last 10 years for example."
“He stressed current systems had improved.”
Copyright @ 2019, Radio New Zealand.
