DUSHANBE, September 16, 2009, Asia-Plus – Officials in Tajikistan''s northern Sughd Province say more than 15,000 infants cannot be vaccinated for tuberculosis because the UNICEF-provided vaccines were sent without syringes, Radio Liberty’s Tajik Service reported on September 15.

Local officials say the vaccines require specially designed syringes rather than standard ones.

Tajik officials have turned to other organizations with requests for assistance in getting the special syringes.

The TB vaccination can only be given to children under one year of age.

Tuberculosis is widespread in Central Asia and timely vaccination against the disease is crucial.