In a bid to combat the twin threats of diphtheria and cholera in Kano State, Nigeria, a 3-day Message Development Workshop was convened by the state Ministry of Health and Breakthrough Action Nigeria.
The workshop aimed to create clear, accurate, and culturally appropriate messages that would empower communities to take preventative actions against these diseases.
Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, the state Commissioner for Health, emphasized the significance of the workshop in his opening remarks. He noted that public health threats like cholera and diphtheria pose a substantial risk to the well-being of the community, particularly during outbreaks.
The workshop, he believed, would help address misinformation and disinformation surrounding these diseases, leading to more effective prevention and control efforts.
The commissioner stressed that the health of the people is a shared responsibility.
Health workers, traditional leaders, community-based organizations, and the media all play crucial roles in disseminating accurate information and promoting healthy behaviors. He emphasized that the messages developed at the workshop would serve as powerful tools in the fight against these diseases, guiding behavior, fostering trust in health interventions, and ultimately saving lives.
Shehu Sani Shehu, the acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, reiterated the importance of the workshop, charging participants to develop messages that would educate people on the dangers of diphtheria and cholera and how to protect themselves and others.
Ahmad Muazu, the State Lead for Breakthrough Action Nigeria, highlighted the workshop’s objectives.
He emphasized the need to develop standardized and accurate communication messages that resonate with different communities across the state. Additionally, the workshop aimed to debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding cholera and diphtheria by ensuring the dissemination of correct information.
The commissioner also announced the establishment of school health clubs as part of the state’s efforts to promote health education among young people.
He explained that schools are the foundation of a healthier future, and by integrating health education into school activities, the government is investing in the next generation.
The clubs would serve as platforms for promoting healthy behaviors, raising awareness of communicable and non-communicable diseases, and fostering a culture of health consciousness among young people.
Dr. Labaran commended Breakthrough Action Nigeria for their support of the workshop and their commitment to advancing public health in Kano State.
With the development of effective messages and the establishment of school health clubs, the state is taking significant steps to protect its citizens from the threats of diphtheria and cholera.
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