Skopje, 8 February 2024 (MIA) - Health Minister Fatmir Mexhiti said Thursday he would sign the document declaring a whooping cough (pertussis) epidemic in Skopje, after yesterday's recommendation by the Commission for Contagious Diseases.

Earlier, Commission spokesman Zlate Mehmedovikj told MIA there are four new confirmed whooping cough cases, bringing the total to 22 since the onset of 2024.

"I was just told by the services that everything has been processed and from here I will go and sign the document, so that we send it to vaccination points," Minister Mexhiti told reporters.

He added that the Commission's recommendation on a ban for admission of non-vaccinated children in kindergartens should be seen in a positive light.

"This is not us wanting to punish someone. We want to stimulate people so their children are healthy, so the country can have a better future. I call on all parents, vaccines protect lives," underlined Mexhiti.

MIA file photo