In an effort to bolster the health and safety of young individuals in Battambang, Marie Stopes International Cambodia (MSIC) recently unveiled a wide-ranging tetanus vaccination program. This initiative has been facilitated through a partnership with the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Regional Polytechnic Institute Techo Sen Battambang, and National Vocation Institute of Battambang. An inaugural event at the Marie Stopes Clinic in Battambang served as the launching point for this crucial health endeavor.
Addressing the gathering, Cheng Lisunkheang, the Deputy Director of the Battambang Provincial Health Department, drew attention to the severe consequences of tetanus, which include muscle stiffness, lockjaw, and acute breathing difficulties, which can lead to fatal results. Cheng strongly advocated for the completion of the vaccine’s full course, recommending five doses to ensure effective, lifelong protection. He particularly urged women of childbearing age, between 15 and 44 years, to receive the vaccination to mitigate the risks of tetanus in childbirth.
Expressing gratitude towards participants, Sivheng Leng, the Country Director for Marie Stopes International Cambodia, discussed MSIC’s dedication to enhancing healthcare outcomes in Cambodia since its inception in 1998. Collaborating closely with the Ministry of Health and the National Maternal and Child Health Centre, Leng underscored the preventive nature of tetanus and the role of timely vaccinations in combating this disease.
Highlighting available youth services, Phanorinn Chhun, Marketing Director of MSIC, pointed out the comprehensive range of offerings at their clinics. Services span from menstruation counseling and STI screening to vaccinations and telemedicine, catering to diverse needs throughout a woman’s life. Chhun praised telemedicine’s potential in delivering stigma-free services to youths, ensuring access to essential healthcare remotely.
The vaccination initiative is part of the RESPONSE strategy, underpinned by the Australian Government’s DFAT, aiming to assist the Cambodian Royal Government and the Ministry of Health in their pursuit to improve young Cambodians’ health.
MSIC encourages individuals seeking sexual and reproductive health services and counseling to connect through various platforms, ensuring wide accessibility. Marie Stopes International Cambodia is a constituent of MSI Reproductive Choice and has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services across Cambodia since 1998, working in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. Operating across eight clinics and 24 women’s networks countrywide, MSIC endeavors to meet the healthcare needs of women, men, and young individuals through an array of specialized services.
Source: Fresh News
