According to data from the Ministry of Health, there have been no cases of polio in Turkey since 1998, no cases of neonatal tetanus since April 2009 and no cases of diphtheria since 2011, thanks to vaccination under the Expanded Immunization Program (EIP).
Vaccines stand out among low-cost and effective health interventions, saving millions of lives. In addition, vaccinated individuals prevent the disease from circulating in the community and protect unvaccinated individuals.
Under the Expanded Immunization Program (EIP), which has been running in Turkey since 1981, vaccines against many childhood diseases are offered free of charge. These vaccines include diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, measles, rubella, mumps, tuberculosis, polio, hepatitis B, hepatitis A, chickenpox, haemophilus influenzae type B and pneumococcal diseases.
Thanks to vaccines, the incidence of diseases such as polio, diphtheria and neonatal tetanus in Turkey has been reduced.
incidence has decreased significantly. Polio, in particular, has been eradicated thanks to worldwide vaccination.
The safety and efficacy of vaccines are ensured by the fact that they are produced and continuously monitored in accordance with international standards. Vaccines are produced in accordance with Good Manufacturing Procedures approved by the WHO and rigorously tested in national reference laboratories.
Vaccines identified for groups at risk within the framework of the vaccination calendar are provided free of charge.
