Qacha’sNek, Oct.22 —Young mothers from Whitehill, Qacha’sNek, urge their peers to take their children for the ongoing Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign, which aims to protect children under five from preventable diseases.
The campaign, which began on Monday and continues through Friday also provides the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), Vitamin A supplementation, and Albendazole for deworming, essential interventions that not only protect children from specific diseases but also strengthen overall immunity and support healthy growth.
In an interview with the Agency, Lipuo Makoae (21) of Whitehill said she brought her four-month-old daughter after encouragement from her mother.
“I decided to bring my daughter because vaccines are important for her protection,” she said.
She appealed to other young mothers to take advantage of the campaign.
“This exercise brings services closer to us and saves time as we no longer have to walk long distances to Tebellong LECSA Hospital,” she added.
Relebohile Ramolibeli (25) of Whitehill, Polasi, brought her two-year-old son after learning about the campaign from other breastfeeding mothers who passed by her home.
“I want to protect my son, and if vaccination is part of that, then why not? I’m glad he got vaccinated,” she said.
She urged her peers to bring their children to ensure their safety in case of future outbreaks.
“It would be heartbreaking to see children suffer because of their parents’ decisions. This is an opportunity we must grab with both hands, especially since the services are brought right to our doorstep,” she said, commending the Ministry of Health for the initiative.
’Mabokang Ts’oaeli (20) of Whitehill, Tiping, also brought her son after hearing about the campaign from her sister-in-law.
“I decided to come, and upon arrival, the nurse gave us a health talk that encouraged me to stay. I came with little knowledge, but I’m glad I stayed because I learned about the benefits of vaccination, the possible side effects, and what to do if they appear,” she said.
She went on to share a heartfelt message with her peers.
“Let’s not allow fear or misinformation to stand in the way of our children’s health. Vaccination is a simple act that saves lives. As young mothers, we must lead by example and give our children the best start in life.”
Tebellong LECSA Hospital nursing assistant ’Mamohapi Ndzo said the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine protects children against two serious infections, measles, which can cause pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death, and rubella, which may lead to severe birth defects if contracted by pregnant women.
“Vaccination not only shields individual children but also strengthens community immunity, preventing outbreaks,” she said.
She said common side effects of the MR vaccine may include mild fever, soreness, or a slight rash, which usually disappear within a few days.
She emphasized that these effects are temporary and far less dangerous than the diseases themselves.
She urged all caregivers to remain at the vaccination site for at least 30 minutes after vaccination to monitor any immediate side effects.
“This helps us ensure that every child leaves here safe and sound. If a child experiences any reaction later at home, parents should take them to the nearest health facility immediately,” she advised.
Ndzo said the team had targeted 32 children at Whitehill but surpassed expectations, reaching 38 by the time she talked to the Agency.
“So far, everything is running smoothly,” she said, adding, “Parents must bring their children for vaccination because unvaccinated children are at greater risk of disease.”
Vaccination coverage in Lesotho has declined to 72 percent for the second MR dose as of 2023. Health authorities warn that by December 2025, the country could have over 61,000 measles-susceptible children under five, a figure exceeding one year’s birth cohort, raising serious concerns about a potential major outbreak.
By bringing their children for vaccination and encouraging their peers to do the same, these young mothers are not only safeguarding their own families but also strengthening the health of the entire community.
Ends
