By Nnedinma Okeke
The Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners has flagged-off the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign in the State. This officially signifies the commencement of MR vaccination in all parts of Anambra.
The ceremony was flagged-off by the Wife of Anambra Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo who was represented by Wife of Anambra Deputy Governor, Mrs Oluchi Ibezim. It was held at Iruzu Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC), Ukpo, Dunukofia Local Government Area (LGA).
Dr. Soludo, during the flag-off explained that, though Measles was a familiar disease which could leave a lasting harm and sometimes lead to death, Rubella was also dangerous; as for a pregnant woman, it affects the child she carries in a way that lasts a lifetime.
“These harmful and dangerous disease are preventable, which is why we intensively begin the Measles-Rubella vaccination across all parts of Anambra State to safeguard and protect the future of our children.
“It should concern us not to allow a preventable diseases to take charge. Our health workers are trained and prepared for this important task and support systems are effectively in place,” Dr Soludo said.
She urged families, Stakeholders, Leaders and people in the State to ensure all eligible children of 9 months to 14 years receives the Measles-Rubella vaccination, thereby choosing prevention, protection, and well-being of children so they grow healthy and strong.
The Commissioner, SMOH, Dr Afam Obidike emphasized on the need for herd immunity whereby every child in the community receives protection against the Measles-Rubella disease as failure, is risking those protected.
The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem urged all present at the flag-off ceremony to aid spread the Measles-Rubella vaccination gospel in their respective communities and platforms to ensure every eligible child is reached, and no child left behind.
The WHO South East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Chukwumuanya Igboekwu speaking on behalf of supporting partners, noted that the Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign was a plus to Anambra healthcare system as it aims to strengthen the system to keep children healthy, protected and communities safe from diseases.
“WHO and Partners are solely behind the State Government to ensure the Measles-Rubella campaign is successful in Anambra. The LGA Mayors, Traditional Rulers, Religious leaders, Women/Youth groups, Political parties, Stakeholders, and everyone has a role to play to ensure children are protected,” he added.
The Mayor, Dunukofia LGA, and Sponsor of the event, Barr. Chijioke Ozumba, urged mothers/caregivers, fathers, and all Stakeholders in the LGA to mobilize and ensure eligible children in the area were immunised, noting that vaccination was a key component of health as it aims to protect against vaccine-preventable diseases.
He thanked the State Government, State Health team, and supporting Partners for all efforts in the planning, coordination and monitoring process of the Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign in Anambra State whilst assuring that the LGA team would supervise the exercise to ensure its success in the area.
The event had in attendance: NPHCDA Zonal Director, Dr Samuel Obasi,
State team, LGA team, Partners; NPHCDA, WHO, IVAC UNICEF, CHAI, AFENET, Traditional Rulers, President Generals, Community Leaders, Women Groups, and eligible children.
The Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign is scheduled in Anambra State from February 4 to 15, in all Public healthcare facility and vaccination designated sites such as schools, churches, mosques, markets, motor parks, playgrounds, and village square, others.
Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
