The Minority in Parliament is challenging the government’s claim that the shortage of childhood vaccines did not result in any casualty.

According to the Minority, information available to them indicates that at least five children have died of measles due to the absence of vaccines.

This development comes in sharp contrast to claims by President Akufo-Addo and Health Minister, Kwaku Agyemang-Manu that no death has been recorded due to the unavailability of the vaccines.

But the Minority Spokesperson on Health and Member of Parliament for Juaboso says despite the public denial by the President and Minister of Health, it is becoming evident that the government is attempting to conceal information on the casualties.

“The President and the Minister responsible for Health made a statement that we haven’t recorded any fatality. That is false. We have recorded about five fatalities. I don’t want to believe that government wants to deliberately withhold information from the public,” Kwabena Mintah Akandoh disclosed.

Despite the controversy, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) over the weekend took delivery of the first consignment of childhood vaccines entreating caregivers to desist from rushing to hospitals for the vaccines.

The GHS said the Ministry of Health has made adequate provisions for the supply of vaccines that will last for the rest of the year and beyond. The vaccines, according to GHS include BCG, OPV, and Measles with accompanying devices such as needles, syringes, and safety boxes.

Vaccinations for children begin today, Monday, March 13. 2023.