The Ministry of Health announced on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, that it had secured a total of 500,000 doses of the Hepatitis B vaccine, funded by the government.
This significant consignment aims to bolster immunization efforts against hepatitis B, a viral infection that poses a serious health threat globally.
“We are pleased to inform all Ugandans that NMS has received half a million doses of the Hepatitis B vaccine bought with funding from the Government of Uganda,” Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, the Minister of Health said.
She notes that the vaccines will be distributed to all the regions of the country to protect citizens from hepatitis B, a potentially life-threatening liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).
Dr. Aceng emphasized the commitment to ensuring these vaccines are efficiently distributed to health facilities across the country, with preparations already underway to reach even the most remote areas.
The National Medical Stores (NMS) is responsible for distributing the vaccine, which is critical for preventing both acute and chronic forms of hepatitis B.
The Hepatitis B vaccine is critical in preventing both the acute and chronic forms of the disease. Experts recommend that infants receive the vaccine within 24 hours of birth, followed by additional doses to ensure full protection.
Adults, especially those at high risk, such as healthcare workers and individuals with liver conditions, are also encouraged to get vaccinated.