UNICEF, in partnership with the Libyan Ministry of Health and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), reports that it has taken another step in strengthening Libya’s healthcare system and providing children with access to life-saving vaccines.
As part of a larger initiative to distribute cold chain and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to 71 vaccination sites across Libya, critical equipment has been dispatched and delivered today to the Abu Salim Polyclinic in Tripoli.
Abu Salim Polyclinic a crucial vaccination site
UNICEF says the Abu Salim Polyclinic has been identified as a crucial vaccination site in the area, and the provision of cold chain and PPE equipment will enhance the administration of quality vaccines to children. The cold chain equipment will ensure that vaccines are stored at the appropriate temperature, while the PPE will safeguard healthcare workers against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
This initiative was made possible through the support of the governments of United States of America and Germany who have contributed towards strengthening the healthcare system and providing children with access to life-saving vaccines.
Milestone during World Immunization Week
The delivery of this equipment to the Abu Salim Polyclinic is a significant milestone during World Immunization Week, which is observed from April 24-30. The Big Catch-up week raises awareness about the critical need to locate and vaccinate children who might have missed essential vaccinations. This also represents an important move towards achieving this goal and ensuring that all children in Libya have access to life-saving vaccines.
UNICEF is the lead partner of the NCDC, and it supports Libya to improve the quality of its immunization programme through cold chain provision, monitoring, supportive supervision and capacity building of immunization staff. UNICEF is also strengthening primary health care to deliver immunization and build lasting protection in Libya. Furthermore, UNIEF committed to provide all the necessary support aiming at finding a sustainable solution to ensure reliable and predictable supply of vaccines and subsequently prevent the stock outs.
