Over 2.7 million children between the ages of nine months and fourteen years are the target of Anambra State’s ongoing measles-rubella immunization program.
The wife of Anambra State Governor Dr. Nonye Soludo officially kicked off the two-week program at the Izuzu Primary Health Care Center in Dunukofia Local Government Area on Wednesday.
The World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and other important partners are among the national and international stakeholders working together to carry out the campaign.
A visit to several immunization facilities throughout the state on Thursday indicated a high number of moms and their kids, and the exercise was going well. Nonetheless, it was noted that infants made up the majority of individuals who came in for vaccinations.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Mrs. Soludo stated that vaccinations provide safe and early protection against diseases that may be prevented, making them one of the best ways to protect children.
The deputy governor’s wife spoke on her behalf, and while she agreed that some children may have modest side effects from vaccinations, such as a slight temperature or swelling, she emphasized that these side effects are transient and far less dangerous than the diseases themselves.
She informed parents and guardians that the health professionals sent out for the exercise were well-trained and equipped, and that referral centers and support networks had been established to handle any issues that could come up.
In order to support the campaign and guarantee that at least 98% of the state’s eligible children receive vaccinations, Mrs. Soludo also urged all relevant parties, including parents, local government chairmen, schools, and religious leaders.
Dr. Samuel Obasi, the Zonal Director of the NPHCDA, stated in his remarks that measles and rubella continue to pose serious risks to Nigerian children’s health, but he was optimistic that Anambra State would see considerable progress in the campaign because of the government’s strong commitment to healthcare.
Dr. Chimuanya Igboekwu, the WHO’s Zonal Coordinator, clarified that since measles and rubella have similar symptoms, vaccination against both illnesses must be administered concurrently for optimal protection.
In order to guarantee complete coverage throughout all 326 wards in Anambra State, including marketplaces, churches, schools, places of worship, and difficult-to-reach areas, he promised that the WHO and other partners would continue to assist the state administration.
Speaking as well, Dr. Afam Obidike, Commissioner for Health, and Pharmacist Chisom Uchem, Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency, stated that sufficient monitoring and supervision systems had been established to guarantee successful stakeholder mobilization and maximum vaccination program coverage.
