Introduction

In an important health initiative, UNICEF has delivered a significant shipment of 270,000 doses of the Tetanus-Diphtheria (Td) vaccine to Ukraine, ensuring the continuation of essential immunization programs in the war-torn nation. This vital supply was made possible thanks to funding from the Government of France, responding to a direct request from Ukraine's Ministry of Health.

Risks and Vaccine Commitment

John Marks, UNICEF’s Deputy Representative for Operations in Ukraine, highlighted the risks posed by war, stating, “The war can lead to an increased spread of infections.” UNICEF is committed to sourcing and delivering vaccines to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children and adults, from preventable diseases.

Td Booster Recommendations

Health authorities recommend adults receive a Td booster every ten years. In cases where vaccination records are unavailable, individuals should consult healthcare providers to ensure they receive necessary immunizations. Significantly, these vaccinations are offered free of charge across Ukraine.

Uninterrupted Vaccine Supply

Ihor Kuzin, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Health, emphasized the ongoing efforts to maintain immunization services throughout the conflict, stating, "The Ministry of Health, in cooperation with international partners, has ensured an uninterrupted supply of vaccines for routine immunization across every region." This assurance allows newborns to obtain mandatory vaccinations in hospitals and ensures that children can access vaccinations in local medical facilities or during community outreach efforts.

Safety During Pregnancy

In light of wartime conditions that heighten the risk of injuries and infections, the Td vaccine is deemed safe for administration during pregnancy, a crucial factor given the country's low vaccination coverage for diphtheria.

Enhancing Vaccine Accessibility

UNICEF has also taken significant steps to improve vaccine accessibility in Ukraine. Earlier this year, with support from the Government of Japan, it provided 60,000 doses of the PENTA vaccine, which protects against multiple diseases, including diphtheria and tetanus. Moreover, throughout 2024, UNICEF, at the request of the Ministry of Health, has sourced additional vaccines, totaling 350,000 doses of the DPT vaccine, 340,000 oral polio vaccines, 403,200 Omicron-specific COVID-19 vaccines, and over 108,000 doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Cold Chain Infrastructure

In collaboration with global partners such as USAID, the World Bank, and the COVAX initiative, UNICEF is modernizing Ukraine's cold chain infrastructure, vital for effective vaccine storage. Currently, around 95% of healthcare facilities in the country are equipped with state-of-the-art cold chain systems that monitor vaccine storage temperatures, a crucial measure to ensure vaccine efficacy.

Conclusion

As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, UNICEF remains dedicated to safeguarding public health by ensuring the availability of vaccines in an increasingly challenging environment.