Health Ministry confirms shortage of BCG vaccine

Maputo, 27 Jun (AIM) – The Mozambican Health Ministry (MISAU) has confirmed that the National Health System is facing a shortage of BCG vaccine, which is primarily used to protect newborn babies against tuberculosis.

A statement from the Health Ministry reveals that the stock of BCG vaccine has run out because the supplier (which was not named) is unable to produce enough of the vaccine.

“The interruption in the distribution of the BCG vaccine resulted from the withdrawal of the initially contracted supplier. The supplier’s decision was motivated by the inability of the producing factory, although pre-qualified by the World Health Organization (WHO), to ensure the quantities stipulated in the contract”, said the Ministry document.

The Ministry guarantees that the vaccine will be available as of 30 June when two million doses are due to enter the country.
“The two million doses will arrive at the Central Medical Stores (CMAM), next Monday”, declared the Ministry. While it is looking for other suppliers, it is relying on donations from the Brazilian government as part of the Expanded Vaccination Programme. The supply of BCG vaccine will be ensured by a grant from the Brazilian government.

According to the document, although the BCG vaccine is recommended to be administered at birth, it can be administered up to a maximum of 23 months of age.

“For this reason, mothers whose children have not been vaccinated are being advised to return to the health units in the coming days, where administration of the vaccine will resume as soon as the new batch is received”, reads the note.
(AIM)
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