VIENTIANE, Jan. 25 (Xinhua) -- Laos has achieved good results in efforts to improve women's and children's health and has met goals in eradicating vaccine-preventable diseases such as diphtheria and whooping cough, Lao Minister of Health Bounfeng Phoummalaysith has said.

At a meeting held in Vientiane province from Tuesday to Friday on vaccination programs, the minister said the Lao Ministry of Health has made good strides towards achieving planned goals over the past 10 years, the Center of Information and Education for Health under the ministry on Thursday quoted him as saying.

The vaccination rate has increased to 96.2 percent in 2023, compared with 74 percent in 2010.

Women and children in target provinces have been able to boost their immunity through vaccinations, especially against diphtheria and whooping cough, as part of the government's policy to provide comprehensive health services.

The minister added that vaccination of girls to prevent the development of cervical cancer is also important and requires coordination among many parties, such as healthcare committees at each level, as well as support from other stakeholders.

Bounfeng advised more activities at the community level to help people understand the need for improved public health, including vaccination.

The government is advising the Ministry of Health to partner with local administrations in continuing to protect people against diphtheria and whooping cough, especially children.

Meanwhile, provincial authorities are working with district commissions of mother and child units and immunization teams in the field to inform people about the need to vaccinate children against as many diseases as possible, according to the report. Enditem

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