Mrs Soludo Champions Educational Initiatives to Promote Polio Vaccination Awareness

In a passionate address, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the wife of Anambra State Governor, emphasized the necessity for educational programs and campaigns to raise awareness about the vital role of vaccines in eradicating polio, especially for children.

Her remarks came during an event organized by the Anambra State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). The occasion also included the administration of polio vaccines to infants at Amawbia Primary Healthcare Center in Awka on Friday, marking World Polio Day.

Mrs. Soludo highlighted that there have been no recorded cases of poliomyelitis in Anambra State for the past decade, attributing this success to the strong commitment and cooperation of local women in prioritizing their children’s health.

“Today, on World Polio Day, we are here not only to administer polio vaccinations to children but also to recognize and commend our women for their outstanding efforts. As of now, Anambra has been free of polio cases for over ten years, thanks to the dedication of our mothers,” she stated.

She drew attention to the 2024 World Polio Day theme, “A Global Mission to Reach Every Child,” which emphasizes the ongoing efforts to ensure comprehensive vaccination across regions where the virus remains a concern. The day serves as a platform to highlight global endeavors toward a polio-free world and to honor those tirelessly working in the fight against the disease.

“Vaccination is key to complete eradication. Please ensure your children are vaccinated to safeguard their health and prevent polio,” Mrs. Soludo urged.

According to Mrs Soludo, “While Anambra has successfully remained polio-free, continuous education and advocacy for immunization are crucial to maintain these gains and prevent a potential resurgence. The partnership with WHO and Rotary International emphasizes our collective resolve to keep polio vaccination a priority within our communities.” 

She expressed gratitude to the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, and the WHO, as well as partners from the Nonye Soludo Healthy Living Initiative, for their continued advocacy of healthy living. She assured attendees that the administration of her husband, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, will persist in its relentless efforts to eradicate polio in Anambra State.

In his address, Dr. Obidike reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining strategies that have effectively contained the virus’s spread, emphasizing that vigilance is essential to prevent a resurgence.

“Polio (Poliomyelitis) remains a highly contagious disease mainly affecting children under five. While rare, it can lead to severe complications, including paralysis and potential death. World Polio Day aims to accelerate global efforts to eradicate the disease and ensure high immunization coverage, along with robust monitoring to quickly detect and respond to potential outbreaks.”

Dr Obidike noted that preventative measures against polio include timely immunization, booster doses, improved hygiene and sanitation, and public awareness initiatives.