The World Health Organization will recognize Zimbabwe this week for its contribution to global health in the development of a so-called vaccine vial monitor which enables health workers in remote areas to determine the condition of vaccines.
The monitors change color when a vaccine vial has been exposed to heat that could spoil the vaccine. Health workers in the remote areas of developing countries where it is hard to keep vaccines refrigerated can be sure vaccines are still potent.
Health Minister David Parirenyatwa was quoted in the state-run Herald newspaper as saying the reward reflected the quality of the national health care system.
World Health Organization scientist Umit Kartoglu told reporter Ndimyake Mwakalyelye of VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe that the so-called VVM system had revolutionized rural health care through the application of heat-sensitive labels on vials.
Zimbabwe Health Ministry immunization advisor Isidor Pazvakavambwa, chairman of the University of Zimbabwe pediatrics department, credited the ministry for continuing to support vaccination programs in the face of so many health care challenges.
More reports from VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe...