© hester van der walt 2012 Dr Hester van der Walt Paediatrician / Pediater MB ChB (US) DCH MMed (Paed) (OVS), Pr 0377597, MP 0279102 Immunizations Immunization, or immunisation, is the process by which an individual's immune system becomes fortified against an agent (known as the immunogen). Vaccinations (immunization) are some of the most important tools available for preventing disease, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Vaccinations not only protect children from developing a potentially serious disease but also protect the community by reducing the spread of infectious disease. Diseases spread from person to person. If enough people are immunized, the disease may not be transmitted through a population, thus protecting everyone. Diseases such as smallpox and polio have nearly disappeared because of immunization. Immunization in South Africa Since May 2010 there are two immunisation schedules available in South Africa, they are: • The government provided Extended Programme of Immunization (EPI) • A program provided by private health providers (let’s call it Private Immunisation Programme - PIP) hester@pediater.co.za 022 713 5149 alle ure/all hours EPI Advantage: The State provides this service at no cost. Disadvantages: No immunisation against Chicken Pox, German Measles, Mumps and Hepatitis A. Long queues. Only available at selected places on selected days, resulting in above mentioned long queues. More injections for less disease coverage. Location: All government clinics, contact your local Department of Health or the Health Division of your local municipality to get the date, time and locality of an immunisation clinic. PIP Advantages: More disease coverage. Initially less injections for greater disease coverage. No waiting time as immunisation occurs on an appointment basis. Immunisation can be scheduled with a routine all round check-up of the child by a doctor. Disadvantages: There are expenses purchasing the vaccine although immunisations are covered by most medical scheme options - inquire at your medical aid fund. Location: PIP is only available at certain private clinics, pharmacies and doctors, including paediatricians. Booking might be necessary A summary of the pro’s and con’s See these notes for more detail on the EPI and PIP programmes Afrikaans / English IMMUNIZATIONS wil jy locum of werk hier? would you like to locum or work here?