By; SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri
United Nations Children’s Education Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with Borno State Government, Primary Healthcare Development Agency (PHCDA) and other partners has flagged off campaigns Oral Cholera Vaccination, Measles Vaccination, and Vitamin A Supplementation in Borno State filling the recent flood disaster that ravaged Maiduguri and Jere LGAs.
The UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Borno State , Mrs.
Christina Valderrama Maya – Alfirev who stated this on Monday at the flagging off ceremony of the campaigns held at Bakassi IDPs Camp Maiduguri emphasized on the importance of these measures in securing the futures of children and promoting public health.
“On behalf of all health and nutrition partners, we would like to commend the leadership of the Borno State government for its swift response in mitigating the impact of the flood disaster that befell Maiduguri.
“Today, we are all here in recognition that potential disease outbreaks following a flood of the magnitude Borno has experienced can be devastating – with the possibility of causing even more harm than the flood itself.
“As we embark on this campaign for oral cholera vaccination, measles vaccination, and vitamin A supplementation, I would emphasize the importance of these measures in securing the futures of children and promoting public health.
“Therefore, we come together with a shared purpose: to safeguard the health and well-being of our communities through vital vaccination and supplementation initiatives,” Christina said.
She suggested that oral cholera vaccination should be addressed first among the IDPs and host communities Cholera is a severe diarrheal disease that can lead to death within hours if left untreated.
“But fortunately, we have a safe and effective vaccine that can protect our communities, particularly in areas where cholera is prevalent as is the case here. By vaccinating, not only oneself but also loved ones and neighbors are being protected.
“Next, the significance of measles vaccination. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious health complications, including pneumonia.
“Vaccination is our most powerful tool in combating this disease. We have seen the devastating effects of measles outbreaks in communities with low vaccination coverage, and we must not allow this to happen here. Let us unite to ensure that every child is immunized.
“Lastly, vitamin A supplementation. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and overall growth in children. A deficiency in this vital nutrient can lead to blindness and increased susceptibility to infections such as measles and pneumonia.
“By providing vitamin A supplements, we are making a significant impact on our children’s health and development, helping to keep them from falling ill,” Christina said.
The UNICEF Chief of Field Office said,” As we launch this campaign, I urge each of you to take an active role. Spread the word, encourage your friends and family to participate, and help us reach every child in our community. Together, we can eradicate preventable diseases and ensure a brighter, healthier future for all.
“Let us unite to build a shield of immunity that will prevent outbreaks and save lives. Together, we can make this campaign a resounding success,” Christina said.
The Borno State Commissioner of Health, Prof. Malam Baba Gana in his remark confirmed two (2) of cholera in Maiduguri, in Yobe, Gombe and in Adamawa, stressing that, despite the presence in Borno only it has only 4 suspects this year and 2 case Confirmed.
He said however the state government has been working assiduously to enhanced health status of the people and adequate drugs and equipments have been provided by state government for administration of the oral cholera vaccination,.Measles Vaccination,l and Vit A supplements .
The Commissioner added that over 40 centers across the state for cholera while 4 children cholera center have been established in Maiduguri while 2 Adults registration centers in Njimrilo and so far only 2 cases have been confirmed in the State.
He advised parents to carry their children to the nearest hospital for vaccine while the adult should go for rehydration even from the host communities while thanking the Minister rof Health, and National Primary Health Care Development Agency for their support to the state with drugs.
WHO Representative, Borno State, Dr. A. Telezeou appreciated all partners and government for it’s support and collaboration while assuring continuous support to the government and people of on.any emergency towards enhancing health condition of the people.
