Table of Contents
- Government Commitment
- Flag-off Ceremony
- Importance of Vaccination
- Stakeholder Support
- Expected Vaccination
- Optimism for the Campaign
The Taraba State government has reiterated its dedication to safeguarding children from measles and rubella, urging communities, health workers, and development partners to collaborate diligently to ensure that no child is overlooked.
During the official launch of the Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign in Jalingo, the state capital, the First Lady of Taraba State, Mrs. Agyin Agbu Kefas, emphasized the necessity of a united effort to eradicate these diseases from the state.
“Let us work together to ensure that no child is overlooked, and that measles and rubella become relics of the past in Taraba State,” stated Mrs. Agyin.
Speaking on her behalf, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bodiya Buma, encouraged parents and caregivers to bring their children to designated health facilities and outreach centers for immunization. She reassured the public that the vaccines are safe, effective, and vital for safeguarding children's health.
Additionally, the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Nuhu Tukura, addressed the audience, labeling measles and rubella as significant threats to child health in Nigeria.
He highlighted that both diseases can be effectively prevented through prompt and extensive vaccination efforts.
Dr. Tukura clarified that the campaign aims to enhance immunization coverage and protect thousands of children throughout all communities in the state.
Various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, community heads, health officials, and development partners, committed their support to the state government's endeavors to entirely eliminate measles and rubella.
Approximately 1.6 million children aged between 9 months and 14 years are anticipated to receive vaccinations during the ten-day campaign.
Furthermore, children aged 0 to 59 months will also receive polio vaccines, while girls aged 9 years will be given the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine, according to the executive secretary.
Health officials are hopeful that the campaign will significantly alleviate the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases in Taraba State, bringing the state closer to achieving universal immunization coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign?
The campaign aims to boost immunization coverage and protect children from measles and rubella, which are serious threats to child health.
Who is eligible for the vaccines during the campaign?
Children between the ages of 9 months and 14 years are eligible for the measles and rubella vaccines, while children aged 0 to 59 months will receive polio vaccines, and girls aged 9 years will be administered the HPV vaccine.
How can parents ensure their children are vaccinated?
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to take their children to designated health facilities and outreach centers for immunization during the campaign.
