Pampers UNICEF pledge aims to save 250 million lives

On a global level the Pampers UNICEF One Pack = One Vaccine initiative has already raised more than 50 million vaccines and aims to raise an additional 200 million vaccines globally over the next three years, which will help UNICEF to support countries in eliminating this disease around the globe. In South Africa the 2008/2009 campaign aims to contribute more than three million tetanus vaccines to the global initiative.

“Millions of babies die from this easily preventable disease every day. We invite all parents to take part in this exciting campaign - for every specially marked Pampers pack that you buy, you will be helping to save one life,” Andy Peterson, GM of Procter & Gamble, the manufacturer of Pampers, said.

Neonatal and maternal tetanus, which is estimated to kill one child every three minutes, is an easily preventable disease, which if properly managed, can be eliminated. “The silent killer, as it has become known, has ravaged many countries on the African continent. We are delighted to have a global brand like Pampers on board as our partner,” Leila Pakkala of UNICEF South Africa said.

Whilst in South Africa tetanus vaccines are readily available, there are other life-threatening diseases, which UNICEF SA is campaigning for locally. “HIV and malnutrition related illnesses are two of the major causes behind infant mortality in South Africa. We are pleased to announce that in addition to our contribution to the global campaign a portion of the total funds raised will go to UNICEF South Africa to help vulnerable communities in their fight against these diseases,” Peterson said.

“The plight of children affected by poverty and preventable diseases in Africa is shocking, the One Pack = One Vaccine campaign is one small step that will result in millions of lives being saved,” Basetsana Kumalo said. “I am honoured to have been selected alongside the UNICEF global ambassador Salma Hayek as the local spokesperson for the Pampers UNICEF partnership.”

The local One Pack = One Vaccine campaign, which kicks off during November 2008, will run until February 2009. By buying a specially marked Pampers pack, you will be helping to save the life of one child.