​The Ministry of Health commenced a three-day measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) coverage survey training program Monday, the results of which will determine the levels of MMR coverage, particularly for the second dose of the MMR vaccine.

Immunization Manager at the Ministry of Health, Julietta Frederick-Cassius said the survey will help determine the actual coverage for measles, mumps and rubella.

“We have been pretty good with our coverage for the first dose which we give at one year, however we are having a challenge with our second dose of MMR. So this study is going to help us determine what strategies and activities we can put in place to improve vaccination rates."

The program constituted two days of theory and a third day piloting the survey in-field, and trained interviewers, the data entry clerks and supervisors. 

Cassius said that survey samples were randomly selected from students spanning grades K to 5.

"[The surveys] will help us improve keeping track of immunizations, our health records, our vaccination records and any other programs."

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is providing technical support for the program.

PAHO's Advisor for Immunization in the Caribbean Sub-Region, Karen Louis-Belle said: "The region of the Americas including the Caribbean has actually been certified as having eliminated Rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome and the Caribbean has actually eliminated measles since 1991, so it's very important for Saint Lucia and other Caribbean Islands to ensure that they maintain that status. In doing so it is very important for every child to receive at least two doses of the MMR vaccine."

The PAHO Official added that the survey is expected to identify the gaps and formulate strategies for closing these gaps.

The MMR Coverage Survey was first announced during Vaccination Week in April 2015. Parents of selected students will be informed of the commencement date of the survey. The Ministry of Health seeks public cooperation in working with the interviewers to successfully complete the questionnaires.