SUVA, July 24 (Xinhua) -- Fiji is strengthening vaccine delivery to remote and maritime communities with the rollout of 65 solar-powered vaccine carriers designed to keep the life-saving doses at safe temperatures during transport.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services launched the Solar Vaccine Carrier Pilot Program this week, introducing portable units that maintain vaccines at the proper low temperatures for up to 12 hours, Fiji Broadcasting Corporation reported on Friday.
Powered by electricity or solar energy, the lightweight carriers reduce dependence on ice packs, making it easier for health workers to transport vaccines to isolated islands and rural communities while preserving their quality and effectiveness.
The ministry said the initiative would also improve disaster preparedness by helping maintain the vaccine cold chain during cyclones, floods and other emergencies, when transport and electricity supplies are often disrupted.
Delivering vaccines across Fiji remains a significant challenge because of the country's geography.
The new solar-powered carriers are expected to provide a more reliable and portable cold chain solution, supporting Fiji's efforts to improve immunization coverage and ensure people in remote communities have equitable access to life-saving vaccines. ■
