South Africa has been rated as one of the top ten unvaccinated countries in terms of global immunisation.

This is according to Chairperson of the Pharmaceutical Society in the Free State, Blenn Eagar. His statement comes as the African continent commemorates Vaccination Week.

Eagar says when an unvaccinated child or adult visits a health facility for any reason, their vaccination record should always be checked and they should be given all the vaccines that they’re missing.

“Recent field assessments have shown that between 23% to 93% of eligible children who visit health facilities for vaccinations or for medical care, have left those healthcare facilities without receiving the vaccination doses that they needed.”

Eagar urges people to be more vigilant.

“I urge all people to check their immunisation cards for themselves, as well as for their children. This is to stop unnecessary sickness and even death. It is vital for people to use this opportunity to make sure that they’re vaccinated against all viruses. This is one of the ways to stop the spread of these diseases.”

REFILWE GAESWE