Ayman Maqableh, Director of Epidemiology at the Ministry of Health, announced the introduction of the 14th vaccine into the National Vaccination Program: the Chickenpox (Varicella) vaccine. This announcement coincides with the celebration of "World Immunization Week."
اضافة اعلان
Maqableh stated that the Ministry will officially begin administering the vaccine on May 9. It will be given as a single dose to children at 12 months of age. The decision targets all children born from January 1, 2025, who have reached their first birthday.
He added that including the Varicella vaccine is a strategic qualitative step. It will be available at all health centers through maternal and child health departments starting May 9, reinforcing the principles of health equity and universal access for all segments of society.
Safety and Scientific Basis
Regarding the vaccine's safety, Maqableh noted that it is well-established, having been used globally since 1995. This has provided an extensive database confirming its effectiveness in limiting the spread of the disease and its complications.
He pointed out that the decision was based on scientific recommendations from the National Technical Advisory Committee on Immunization, as well as national studies conducted in Jordan. These studies revealed a significant direct and indirect economic burden caused by Chickenpox, highlighting the importance of preventive intervention.
History of the National Vaccination Program
Maqableh reviewed the program's evolution, noting major milestones:
1982: Introduction of the Measles vaccine.
1995: Introduction of the Hepatitis B vaccine.
2025: Introduction of the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV).
These cumulative efforts have led to remarkable national achievements; Jordan recorded its last case of Polio in 1992, and the last cases of Diphtheria and Tetanus in 1995.
Combined Vaccines
Jordan is a pioneer in adopting "Combined Vaccines" that contain multiple antigens in a single dose. This approach reduces the number of injections and the physical and psychological burden on children and parents while maintaining high efficacy. Key examples include the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) and the Hexavalent vaccine (protecting against Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hib, Hepatitis B, and Polio).
World Immunization Week, observed annually from April 24 to 30, aims to highlight the collective action needed to promote vaccine use and protect people of all ages from preventable diseases.
Source: PETRA
