The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo has described immunisation as every child’s right and a critical step toward ensuring healthy childhood development.
Soludo, Founder, Healthy Living initiative made the assertion on Wednesday while flagging off the Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccine Introduction Campaign in the state.
The campaign was launched at Iruzu Primary Health Centre in Ukpo, Dunukofia Local Government Area.
It marked the commencement of a state-wide vaccination exercise targeting children aged nine months to 14 years against measles and rubella.
The campaign is being implemented in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF and other development partners.
Represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Oluchi Ibezim, Soludo stressed that denying children access to vaccination exposes them to preventable diseases.
“Denying our children this vaccine undermines their chances of living healthy and productive lives because immunisation remains the most effective way to protect children from life-threatening childhood illnesses.
“Parents should be rest assured that the vaccine is safe, effective and reliable.
“I urge parents, school authorities, traditional rulers, religious leaders and local government officials to support the campaign.
“Let us ensure that the state achieves its target of vaccinating about 2.7 million children, representing 98 per cent coverage,” she said.
The governor’s wife also assured residents that trained health workers, supported by referral systems, had been deployed across the state to handle the exercise safely.
Also speaking, Dr Samuel Obasi, Zonal Director, NPHCDA, said measles and rubella remain major threats to child health.
He expressed confidence that Anambra’s strong commitment to healthcare delivery would ensure success of the campaign.
Dr Chimuanya Igboekwu, WHO Zonal Coordinator, explained that measles and rubella present similar symptoms, making combined vaccination essential for effective protection.
He assured that WHO and other partners were supporting efforts to reach children in all 326 wards of the state, including those in hard-to-reach communities.
In his remarks, Dr Afam Obidike, state’s Commissioner for Health, noted that minor reactions such as mild fever or swelling may occur after vaccination but usually disappear quickly.
He urged parents not to allow fear prevent children from receiving protection against preventable diseases.
“The vaccination will run till Feb. 14.
“It is free of charge and accessible in communities, schools, markets, places of worship, health facilities and other public centres across the state,” he said.
The Executive Secretary, state Primary Health Care Development Agency, Mrs Chisom Uchem, said monitoring and mobilisation strategies had been strengthened to ensure maximum coverage across the state.
