UNICEF delivers vaccines against tuberculosis, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B and Hib to Ukraine

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has delivered 190,000 doses of the BCG vaccine against tuberculosis to Ukraine, as well as 60,000 doses of the combined vaccine for the prevention of pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis B, and hemophilic infection type b (Hib) (with a whole-cell pertussis component).

Ukraine received the vaccines free of charge as humanitarian aid.

"Despite the war, vaccination of children continues according to the national immunization schedule,” said Deputy Minister of Health and Chief State Sanitary Doctor Ihor Kuzin. “We thank our partners for their assistance in this difficult time. Tuberculosis is very dangerous for infants, and 5-in-1 vaccines become more relevant taking into consideration possible supply disruptions. Thanks to this vaccine, a child will receive protection against five diseases in one go.”

"UNICEF continues to support the children of Ukraine, including by procuring and delivering vaccines included in the national vaccination calendar,” said Murat Sahin, UNICEF Ukraine Representative. “During the war, vaccination has not lost its relevance – on the contrary, protection against infection has become even more urgent. If you have access to vaccination services in your area, use them – do not postpone the vaccination until later, especially if you missed an earlier dose. At a time when danger is everywhere, do protect your child from vaccine-preventable diseases.”

Currently, Ukraine receives vaccines procured by UNICEF with donor funds. This year, UNICEF has already delivered vaccines against poliomyelitis, measles-rubella-parotitis, diphtheria-tetanus, hepatitis B, and rabies. Vaccines included in the National Vaccination Calendar are available to the public free of charge.

UNICEF, together with partners, continues to support Ukraine in responding to the emergency humanitarian situation created by the war, including by providing medicines and medical equipment, building the capacity of healthcare workers, repairing bomb shelters in Ukrainian hospitals, providing assistance to families with children and conducting educational activities for children, their parents, social workers, and teachers.