Immunizations -- Easy for me to say

I'm having my first post-retirement experience with the Public Health Dept: in preparation for the trip to Sierra Leone, I need to update my immunization shots. When I was in the military, I could simply show up at the shot clinic, have someone look at my records and then be given the shots; now I must go stand in line to fill out paperwork, then wait for half an hour in line to see someone who can recommend (not tell me) what shots I may need...but I will have to pay for them.

Should I think this is a hassle? What a blessing! First, there is an organized, functional public health system within easy travel from my home. Second, there are immunizations in stock or available within a week. Third, relative to the cost of living, the shots are affordable.

This is not so for most of the rest of the world--it is certainly not so in Bo, Sierra Leone. The civil war and lack of sound governance created an environment that could not sustain a public health system.

But there are people working to make health a reality, not a luxury for the children in the city and at the Child Rescue Center.