The Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EDSPHCDA) has joined forces with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Edo State Chapter to increase measles vaccination coverage and raise awareness about communicable diseases.
During a visit to CAN, Dr. Freeborn Eseigbe, the Deputy Director of Disease Control and Immunization (EDSPHCDA), announced that measles vaccination for children between 9-15 months old would soon commence. He appealed to CAN to help disseminate information among their church members about the importance of preparing their children for vaccination.
Representing the World Health Organization (WHO), Pharm. Ukwo Vandi emphasized the severe complications of measles, including the potential for blindness.
Vandi noted that many children have not received the second dosage of the vaccine, leading to numerous measles outbreaks across the state. She urged parents and guardians to ensure their children were vaccinated against the virus to protect them and prevent further spread.
In addition, the EDSPHCDA advocacy team educated members of CAN on the dangers of communicable diseases such as COVID-19 and Monkeypox.
Dr. Freeborn Eseigbe highlighted the symptoms of Monkeypox and advised anyone experiencing them to seek immediate medical attention.
Mrs. Elfreda Omogun, the State Immunization Officer, stressed that COVID-19 is not yet eradicated and herd immunity has not been achieved. Therefore, continuous vaccinations are crucial, especially for older individuals who are more susceptible to the virus. She pleaded with CAN leaders to convey the importance and benefits of vaccination to their congregations.
Dr. Aminah Yahaya from UNICEF SBCC emphasized the significance of behavioral change in promoting the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines. Yahaya encouraged CAN leaders to mobilize their members for vaccination.
Bishop Oriname Oyennude Kure, Chairman of CAN, Edo State Chapter, expressed gratitude to the EDSPHCDA team and assured them that the message would be relayed to the churches under CAN’s umbrella.
