The Air Rescue Team of FEMERAID International informs all our members, Knights and Dames of the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta, Federation of the Autonomous Priories (KMFAP) about the followings:
The WHO announced recently the approval of a second malaria vaccine for children. It is unfortunate that it took 30 years to develop a vaccine against a parasite, while in just 10 months we were able to develop 4 vaccines against COVID-19, which is caused by a highly complex virus. Nonetheless, good news is always welcome and we fully endorse the use of the vaccine for all children residing or spending extended periods of time in endemic areas. We remain hopeful that vaccines for adults will also be available soon, leading to a significant reduction in annual deaths in sub-Saharan Africa.
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There has been a significant amount of discussion lately about vaccinations, with movements against them even emerging. However, not long ago, in countries with well-executed vaccination plans, over 10 diseases that were once fatal have been almost completely eradicated. Diseases such as Polio, Tetanus, Influenza (Flu), Hepatitis B, Hepatitis A, Rubella, Measles, Pertussis (Whooping Cough), Pneumococcal Disease, Rotavirus, Mumps, Chickenpox and Diphtheria are no longer an issue. Unfortunately, this positive outcome does not apply to poorer nations, where the aforementioned diseases continue to claim the lives of children in particular. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to safeguard yourself and your loved ones, do not hesitate to do so, irrespective of the commercial aspect of vaccines. They are life-saving and have the potential to protect someone dear to you.
Have a safe winter!
12th October 2023
Dr. Nuno Gonçalo Cosmelli
Air Physician and Director of Air Rescue Service of FEMERAID International