Gabon Launches National vaccination Campaign to Protect Children
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Libreville,Gabon – The Gabonese government,in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF),commenced the second phase of a nationwide campaign for intensified vaccination activities (AVI) on Wednesday,June 19,2025. This initiative seeks to bolster immunity among children aged 0 to 59 months and pregnant women against potentially fatal diseases across the nation.
National Vaccination Campaign details
The campaign, running from June 18 to 22, follows an encouraging initial phase in February, during which nearly 9,000 children received the pentavalent vaccine, increasing vaccination coverage from 49% to 64%. The pentavalent vaccine protects against five diseases: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) [WHO].
Did You Know? Gabon has a total area of 267,670 square kilometers, approximately 75% the size of Germany [1].
Vaccines and Coverage
According to Marie-Reine Fabry, UNICEF’s resident representative for Gabon, children will receive vaccines against tuberculosis, polio, hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, pneumonia, meningitis, measles, and yellow fever. Children aged 6 to 59 months will also receive a vitamin A capsule to strengthen their immunity.The campaign aims to reach children who remain unprotected, building upon the gains made in the first phase.
Pro Tip: Vitamin A supplementation is a key intervention to reduce child mortality and improve immune function, especially in regions where deficiency is prevalent.
The official launch occurred at the Awendjé Health Center in Libreville, with representatives from technical and financial partners, as well as Bruno Ecuele Manga, captain of the national football team and a UNICEF advocate, present to raise awareness among families. Medical teams and community agents will be deployed in health centers, neighborhoods, and villages for five days, offering free and accessible vaccinations.
| Vaccine | Diseases Prevented | Target Age Group |
|---|---|---|
| Pentavalent | Diphtheria, tetanus, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, Hib | Infants |
| BCG | Tuberculosis | Newborns |
| Polio | Poliomyelitis | Infants and Children |
| Measles | Measles | Children |
| Yellow Fever | Yellow Fever | Children and Adults (in endemic areas) |
Impact and Future Goals
Dr.chirezi Fabry emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, “A vaccinated child is a protected child. And a protected community is a safer future,” urging families to visit vaccination centers. The initial vaccination effort in February considerably improved vaccination rates,particularly against measles,with coverage increasing from 54% to 81%. This second phase aims to solidify these achievements and reach the remaining unprotected children.
Gabon, located on the Atlantic coast of Central Africa, has a population of approximately 2.4 million people [2]. The country’s commitment to improving public health through vaccination is crucial for ensuring a healthy and productive future for it’s citizens.
What are the long-term benefits of widespread vaccination in Gabon? How can communities further support vaccination efforts?
Understanding Gabon’s Vaccination Landscape
Vaccination programs in Gabon are essential for combating infectious diseases and improving public health outcomes. These programs are designed to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children and pregnant women, from preventable illnesses.The success of these initiatives relies on collaboration between the government, international organizations like WHO and UNICEF, and local communities.
Gabon’s geography, with its location on the equator and a coastline of 885 km [1], presents unique challenges for healthcare delivery. Reaching remote villages and ensuring consistent vaccine supply require robust logistical planning and community engagement. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of vaccination coverage are crucial for identifying gaps and tailoring interventions to specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vaccination in Gabon
Why is vaccination significant for children in Gabon?
Vaccination protects children from potentially fatal diseases, contributing to a healthier and safer community.
How can I find the nearest vaccination center in Gabon?
Medical teams and community agents are deployed in health centers, neighborhoods, and villages to provide free vaccinations.
What should I do if my child missed a vaccination dose in Gabon?
Contact your local health center to schedule a catch-up vaccination quickly.
Are vaccines safe for pregnant women in Gabon?
Certain vaccines are safe and recommended for pregnant women to protect both the mother and the baby. Consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
How does Gabon ensure the quality of vaccines?
Gabon works with international organizations like WHO to ensure that vaccines meet quality standards and are safely administered.
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