Milne Bay launches tetanus program

37 year old Ruth Philemon was the first to take the tetanus shot, signaling the rollout of the Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination Program for Milne Bay (NBC News: Priscilla Waikaidi)

In response to low immunization coverage and a rise in preventable deaths, Papua New Guinea has launched a targeted tetanus vaccination campaign for women and girls of childbearing age 15 to 45 years.

The rollout officially began this morning in Alotau and will cover the entire Milne Bay Province throughout June.

Supported by UNICEF and the Department of Health, the campaign is part of a broader initiative across seven provinces. UNICEF highlighted that maternal and neonatal tetanus remains a significant threat in developing countries, including PNG, where vaccination rates lag behind other Western Pacific nations.

At the Alotau launch, Senior Physician Dr. Gilchrist Oswyn clarified that the vaccine is not new, but the renewed focus comes in light of alarming increases in reported maternal and infant deaths linked to tetanus.

Students from St Barnabas School of Nursing will assist with the rollout, they also line up for the shots at the launch today *(NBC News: Priscilla Waikaidi)*

The CEO of the Milne Bay Provincial Health Authority, Dr. Perista Mamadi, officially launched the campaign at Alotau Town Market, where local women were among the first to receive their shots.

Women will receive their first dose this June, a second dose in August, and a booster in March 2026 to ensure full immunization.

Health officials hope this campaign will help lift PNG’s immunization rates and protect more women and newborns from preventable illness and death.