Parliament, Friday, 25 April 2026 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Health, Ms Faith Muthambi, today emphasised the importance of sustained vaccination efforts.
The Chairperson said that World Immunisation Week, observed from 24 to 30 April, presents a critical opportunity to highlight the vital role of immunisation in saving lives and safeguarding public health.
“Vaccines remain one of the most powerful and effective tools in public health,” said Ms Muthambi. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over the past 50 years, global immunisation efforts have prevented more than 150 million deaths and shielded communities from devastating diseases, including measles, diphtheria, pertussis, polio and rotavirus. Ongoing scientific advancements continue to strengthen the protection efforts, with newer vaccines targeting diseases such as malaria, HPV, cholera and dengue. Vaccine development and immunisation help people at all stages of life to live longer, healthier lives.
The Chairperson noted that communities must be continuously educated about the benefits of immunisation and encouraged to participate actively in vaccination programmes to ensure widespread protection.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, MS FAITH MUTHAMBI.
For media inquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Yoliswa Landu (Ms)
Cell: 081 497 4694
E-mail: ylandu@parliament.gov.za
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