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Insecurity threatens immunization of children

    ABIDJAN

    UNICEF said in a news release on Thursday that it deplored the breakdown of peace in Sierra Leone which, “is particularly tragic for the children of Sierra Leone, who have already suffered enough during nine years of civil war”.

    The new insecurity jeopardises the third round of an immunisation drive that began last year following the July Lome peace agreement and which was programmed for 20-21 May. “This round is particularly crucial as it also includes distribution of vitamin A supplements, a life-saving intervention for children weakened by chronic malnutrition,” UNICEF said.

    “Unless key areas of the country can be reached, the entire purpose of the polio eradication effort in Sierra Leone will be defeated, seriously violating the rights of children there,” it said.

    This article was produced by IRIN News while it was part of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Please send queries on copyright or liability to the UN. For more information: https://shop.un.org/rights-permissions

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