In 1989, the United Nations called for the elimination of neonatal tetanus. A decade later, they tossed in maternal tetanus. I'm sure you know what a tetanus shot is.
Well, a few days ago, Mozambique managed to eliminate it; elimination being defined as less than 1 case per 1,000 live births. The WHO estimates there are 40 countries to go, but hasn't updated to reflect Mozambique, so really, 39 to go now.
Myanmar knocked it out back in June.
The death rate has come down 92% from the late 1980's to the last available numbers in 2008. But it's always those last annoying percentage points that prove the toughest. They were hoping to have it gone by now.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
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