New mums have helped to eradicate maternal and newborn tetanus in eight of the world’s poorest countries by buying Pampers.
The company, in association with UNICEF, have eliminated the disease in Ghana, Myanmar, Uganda, Liberia, Senegal, Guinea Bisau, Timor Leste and Burkina Faso.
Irish parents are responsible for providing 14 million vaccines to the cause and this winter the organisation is calling out to parents to continue to support mothers and babies in need.
In 2006, parents throughout the world have helped provide 300 million vaccines to UNICEF, just by throwing packs of Pampers into their shopping baskets ahead of other brands.
Today, the organisation has launched their 1 Pack = 1 Vaccine initiative for the seventh year.
Model Sarah McGovern supports the 1 Pack = 1 Vaccine initative
Despite the huge efforts, women and babies in 33 countries are at risk from the fatal disease. MNT occurs when newborns or mothers are infected at birth, often as a result of unhygienic birthing practices. It is however entirely preventable through simple injections administered to pregnant women and girls of child bearing age.
Peter Power, UNICEF Ireland Executive Director says, “Eliminating a disease in 8 countries is an amazing accomplishment and we couldn’t have done it without the support of Pampers and mums across Ireland and the world.
“The sad truth is that there are still approximately 130 million women and their future babies in the most remote areas of the world’s poorest countries at risk of MNT”
“The disease could be easily prevented by the administration of a simple vaccination programme. When you buy a specially marked pack of Pampers nappies or wipes, the cost of the vaccines provided really do make a difference.
“With your support, we can help protect the women and newborns that are at risk so they too can enjoy safety and protection from MNT.”
Will you continue to support such a fantastic cause?
