Jamaicans are invited to partake in a suite of health and wellness offerings that will be made available this week as the nation observes its Emancipation and Independence holidays.
From August 1 to 6, the Ministry will host sensitisation sessions for childhood immunisation and distribute health education material at its booth inside the Independence Village on the grounds of the National Arena.
The focus is part of national efforts to ensure that infants and children are fully immunised against illnesses, in preparation for the upcoming school year. Members of the public are encouraged to keep children in their care up to date with the required immunisation.
Routine immunisation in childhood safeguards against 10 diseases, namely, Tuberculosis, Poliomyelitis, Diptheria, Pertussis (Whooping Cough), Haemophilus Influenza Type B, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, as well as Measles, Mumps and Rubella.
At the same time, the ‘Know Your Numbers’ campaign will take on the Denbigh Show Grounds in May Pen, Clarendon from August 5 to 7.
Patrons are welcome to have their blood pressure and blood sugar checks, cholesterol readings and body mass index measured. In addition to the health screenings, the Ministry’s Nutrition and Dietetics Services will be on hand for nutrition counselling and food demonstrations. HIV tests and counselling will also be accessible.
The ‘Know Your Numbers’ campaign aims to contribute to lowering morbidity and mortality associated with the high prevalence of non-communicable diseases in the population by promoting early screening and behaviour change for better health outcomes for all.