Korede Abdullah in Lagos
In a joint effort to eradicate Circulating Variant Poliovirus Type 2 (CVPV2), the Idemili North Health Authority in collaboration with the Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ASPHCDA), the State Ministry of Health, and partners officially flagged off the first round of the National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) at Oye-Uzoigwe Health Center, Nsukwu Abatete.
Speaking at the event, HOD/Director of Idemili North Health Authority, Mrs. Chinwe Okeke, emphasized the importance of mobilizing parents, guardians, and caregivers to bring children aged 0 to 59 months for immunization.
She stated, “The National Immunization on polio eradication campaign taking place all over Nigeria will be done in two phases. After which there will be a survey to know whether polio is still in the country or not.”
Mrs. Okeke further highlighted the urgency of the campaign, warning against complacency in immunization efforts. “Prevention is better than cure. No one will like to have a cripple as a child especially when it is a preventable disease,” she cautioned.
The Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) campaign will run from May 3 to 6, 2025, with two additional days for mop-up, targeting homes, churches, markets, schools, and other public spaces.
She also took the opportunity to educate the audience on three vital health areas: hand and environmental hygiene, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and routine immunization. “Together we can achieve a healthy nation,” she affirmed, urging attendees to spread the message throughout their communities.
Representatives from the World Health Organization, Dr. Willie Onolugo and Dr. Chisom, reassured the public of the safety and efficacy of vaccines used in Nigeria. They noted that all vaccines are thoroughly tested and certified before approval.
Addressing misinformation, they added that there is no difference between the free vaccines given during national campaigns and those administered in routine health services.
The Health Educator/SMO, Mrs. Okpala Nwankwo Chinememma Ukamaka thanked all stakeholders, including community leaders and nursing mothers, for supporting the initiative and called for full compliance to ensure successful immunization coverage.
