The Ministry of Health & Wellness (MOHW), in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and UNICEF, will join regional partners in observing Vaccination Week in the Americas with a series of public health activities aimed at increasing awareness and access to life-saving vaccines.

From April 25 to May 2, Jamaica joins countries across the Americas and Caribbean in observing the 24th annual Vaccination Week in the Americas (VWA). This year’s theme, “Your decision makes a difference #GetVaccinatedToday,” is a direct call to action. Vaccines remain one of the safest and most effective measures for preventing dangerous diseases and protecting individuals, families, and communities.

As part of the week’s activities, the Ministry will host a Community Health Fair on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Giant Family Mart Car Park, Port Maria, St. Mary, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event is designed to bring essential health services directly to the public in a convenient and engaging setting.

The Health Fair will feature vaccination services for eligible individuals, alongside a mobile health unit providing comprehensive screenings, including blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, HIV, and syphilis testing. The event will also include a school jingle competition aimed at raising awareness about the importance of the HPV vaccine, engaging students in promoting public health messaging.

The initiative underscores the Ministry’s continued commitment to expanding access to preventive healthcare services and strengthening public awareness around immunization, particularly among children and adolescents.

In his VWA message, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton CD, MP noted that “Jamaica joins the global call to action for all persons, who can, to be vaccinated. Vaccines are safe, effective, and critical to preventing disease and saving lives. Although Jamaica has eliminated illnesses like polio and measles, the risk of reintroduction remains, especially with global travel. Vaccination protects not just individuals, but our most vulnerable.”

Vaccination Week in the Americas, led by PAHO, serves as a critical platform to promote equity in vaccine access and reinforce the importance of immunization in preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Through its partnership with UNICEF, this year’s observance will also emphasize community engagement and youth involvement in public health advocacy.

The Ministry of Health & Wellness encourages all Jamaicans to take advantage of the services being offered and to make informed decisions about their health.