A health fair held at the Edgar Cochrane Polyclinic in Bridgetown, Barbados, highlighted the importance of vaccination as part of activities marking Vaccination Week in the Americas 2026. The event, supported by the Pan American Health Organization and World Health Organization, aimed to raise public awareness about vaccine safety and encourage greater immunization uptake.
Speaking at the event, Lisa Cummins emphasized that vaccines meet strict global safety standards and continue to be monitored after introduction. She noted Barbados’ long-standing success in immunization, which has helped eliminate diseases such as polio, measles, diphtheria, and rubella, while also warning that declining vaccination rates in recent years pose renewed risks.
Although some improvements have been recorded in measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination coverage, health authorities stressed that achieving at least 95% coverage is essential to maintain herd immunity. Without it, communities remain vulnerable to outbreaks, especially given the country’s exposure to international travel and imported diseases.
PAHO/WHO representatives also highlighted rising measles cases globally and within the Americas, pointing to a significant increase in reported infections in recent years. This trend reinforces the urgency of strengthening immunization efforts and sustaining public confidence in vaccines.
The health fair provided practical support to the public, offering opportunities for vaccinations, health screenings, and access to information. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to promote preventive healthcare and protect communities from vaccine-preventable diseases across Barbados.
