The Ministry of Health has introduced the Hexavalent Vaccine into Samoa’s National Immunisation Schedule. The vaccine combines six individual vaccines into a single injection, offering protection against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), and polio.
This change simplifies the immunisation process and reduces the number of injections children receive, aiming to improve vaccination rates and reduce discomfort for babies. The Hexavalent Vaccine has been approved by the World Health Organization and is already in use globally.
In Samoa, infants will receive the vaccine at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age, with a booster at 15 months, alongside other routine childhood vaccines.
According to the Ministry, the rollout will begin in urban health facilities before expanding to district hospitals and rural areas. A national awareness campaign will support the rollout, involving village outreach, school sessions, and the distribution of informational materials to parents and caregivers.
While mild side effects like fever or soreness may occur, the Ministry advises parents that these are expected and pass quickly. Parents are encouraged to contact local clinics if they observe anything unusual after vaccination.
The Acting Director General of Health, Auliamailae Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen, is calling on all families to ensure their children are fully vaccinated on time. The Ministry says the move is part of ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce preventable childhood diseases.
For more information, parents and caregivers are encouraged to contact the National Immunisation Clinic on 66694 or visit the Ministry of Health’s website at www.health.gov.ws. Updates are also available on the official Facebook page @healthsamoa.
