By Nnedinma Okeke
The International Paediatrics Association (IPA)/Paediatrics Association of Nigeria (PAN) Immunization Champion’s Team had on May 7, paid an advocacy visit to the Office of the Executive Secretary, Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency.
The Team Lead, Prof. Chinyere U. Onubogu explained that as a result of low immunization coverage in Nigeria, the Paediatrics Association deemed it fit to train Immunization Champions in every State of which they were fully functional in Anambra.
She noted that ASPHCDA was their major collaborator, hence the visit which was; to congratulate the new ES on her appointment which they described as a square peg in a square hole; to identify and introduce themselves as they were open to collaboration, and partnerships in matters concerning childhood Immunization.
“Prior to this visit, we have been to Immunization Unit at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku to sensitize and distribute IEC materials centered on immunization.
“We have areas that needs improvement as currently in Nigeria there are 2.2 million zero does children. This implies that there are 2.2 million children that have never received immunization, and aside that only 23 percent of children are fully immunized. That means 4 out of every 5 children are not completely immunised
“We acknowledge that your office can do a lot to improve immunization coverages, such as; communities mobilisation, continued engagement with stakeholders to include; Religious leaders and school owners, as they play important roles in the drive for immunization,” Prof. Onubogu said.
She urged that the Agency ensures continued awareness creation on newly introduced vaccines, such as HPV and Measles-Rubella (MR), sensitize healthcare workers on ways to identify missed immunizations so as to improve uptake, ensure no stock out of vaccines, maintain cold chain to ensure potency of vaccines, and active surveillance.
Responding to the team, the Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Dr Obianuju Chinelo Okoye, urged the Champions on proper synergy between them and the State Immunization Office. She noted that hardwork was a requisite for a perfect job and for effective outcomes to be achieved, she was open to partnership that counts.
She expressed gratitude to the team for the visit, assuring that they would be actively involved in the State’s Immunization activities to aid move the programme forward, thereby ensuring optimal results.
Other members of the visiting team includes; Consultant Paediatrician- Dr Uju Chinenye, SC- Mrs Echezona Bridget, Immunization Nurse- Mrs Stella Okezie, Senior Registrar- Dr Vivian Anugah, and State Health Educator- Mrs Uju Onwuegbuzina.
Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
