Support to the Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination

The project aims to reduce the incidence of child and maternal mortality in targeted countries through maternal and neonatal tetanus elimination (MNTE). Maternal and neonatal tetanus (MNT) is a deadly disease that affects women and children in developing countries. When women give birth in unhygienic circumstances both mother and baby are at risk of contracting tetanus if they are not protected by vaccination. With Canada's support UNICEF Canada is providing tetanus vaccine to at least 3 401 448 women of reproductive age and their future newborns in Pakistan Sudan Chad Kenya and South Sudan. Project activities include: (1) distributing vaccines and supplies for supplemental immunization activities; (2) strengthening of the cold chain to transport vaccines and supplies; (3) promoting clean delivery practices routine immunization and antenatal care; (4) developing and implementing national plans of action training and support for health workers; and (5) strengthening surveillance of MNTE to monitor and evaluate progress.

The expected results for this project include: (1) increased number of countries have progressed towards and validated MNT elimination; and (2) increased understanding by Canadians of MNCH the value of MNTE to save children’s lives and Canada’s leadership role on these issues.