The Wife of Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs Marymaudline Nwifuru says vaccines provided for Measles Campaign exercise is safe, effective, and proven to protect children from measles.
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Mrs Nwifuru made the remarks during the kicked off ceremony of 2023 Measles Vaccination campaign exercise at Iboko in Izzi Local Government Area of the State.
She described measles as disease that had continued to pose threat to children’s health.
She maintained that Immunisation was key and the campaign, a vehicle to a brighter and healthier future.
“Immunisation exercise is an initiative that holds the power to protect our children, give values to life and transform their futures.
“Our duty as parents, caregivers, responsible citizens and government to take actions and ensure that our children are protected from this devastating illness.”
The Deputy Governor, Mrs Patricia Obila, pleaded that the exercise should be given top priority, adding that the State government was committed to improve efficiency and effectiveness of the exercise.
Obila encouraged all local Government stakeholders, especially the chairmen to ensure a successful outcome of the campaign in the state.
She enjoined the support of community leaders in facilitating community participation and mobilisation of children and eligible adults for the vaccination campaign.
Mrs Vivian Ibe, State Coordinator World Health Organisation (WHO) disclosed that the state had so far, recorded over 10 cases of measles in 2023.
Ibe stressed the need for all to take advantage of the vaccination exercise as a priority to protect children from the burden.
She commended the State Government for the exercise and appreciated other partners and UN agencies in the state.
The State Commissioner for Health Dr Moses Ekuma, said hat the vaccination is compulsory.
Dr Ekuma added that the vaccination is not optional but an offense when children are not immunised. He said the vaccine is for children between 09 to 59 months.
He commended partners, Governor Francis Nwifuru and wife for making the exercise a reality.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Mr Moses Ogodoali-nome, ALGON Chairman promised to reach out to difficult areas in the rural communities.
