The Minister of State, Nigerian Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, has kicked off the second round of the Administration’s outbreak response to the circulating polio virus in the Federal Capital Territory.
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The minister who performed the exercise at the Area 2 Primary Healthcare Centre, Garki Abuja vaccinated two new born babies as the chief vaccinator, just as she urged mothers to take the vaccination seriously and ensure proper hygiene.
“We urge all mothers to come out and vaccinate their babies, because we want polio to be kicked out or eradicated, and we want the status to be maintained. I know mothers are the most excited people in the world especially with a new born baby. However, follow all the processes as directed by medical personnel.
“Also be reminded that the COVID-19 pandemic is not yet over, therefore keep observing all the protocols by wearing your face mask and keeping physical distancing. I am happy you are all wearing your face mask, keep doing that even in market places,” Aliyu cautioned.
The minister assured that FCTA would participate in the October National Immunization Plus Days when under 5 children in the FCT and the 36 states of the federation would have another opportunity to be vaccinated with the potent novel oral polio vaccine.
Aliyu, however, commended WHO in supporting the teams with logistics, Unicef supports in advocacy, communication and social mobilization, while charging the area councils to expand the reach.
The Acting Secretary of FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Iwot Ndaeyo, said the first round was conducted in the 5 area councils of Abaji, Abuja Municipal, Bwari, Kuje and Kwali last month, August, 2021 and all are due for the second round in the month of September, 2021.
He also stated that the first-round report showed Abaji, Kwali and Bwari performing well and passing the end process evaluation at first test, while Abuja Municipal and Kuje area councils had to undertake mop-up exercises to meet the required coverage and eventually passed the end process test.
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