By hannover-web.com Dr. Akinpelu Adetola, the Immunisation Program Coordinator for the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, recently shared key updates as the Lagos State Ministry of Health prepares for an ambitious immunization campaign aimed at protecting 21 million residents against preventable diseases starting October 19. During a two-day media dialogue in Lagos, Dr. Adetola revealed that talks are already in progress with over 63,000 personnel and 14,000 healthcare workers to actively participate in this initiative.
“The goal of this campaign is to enhance routine immunization and significantly reduce the number of zero-dose cases,” Dr. Adetola explained. The event, themed ‘Achieving the Health Sector SDGs for Over Two Million Children at Risk of Death in Nigeria,’ underscores the urgency and importance of this public health effort.
“I’m pleased to announce that we have completed our mapping process and are optimistic about securing the necessary healthcare workforce to support this significant campaign, which also seeks to bridge gaps exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” he noted. The immunization campaign will primarily target vaccinations against measles and yellow fever, while also ensuring that girls who have yet to receive the HPV vaccine have the opportunity to get vaccinated.
“For measles, we aim to inoculate children aged 9 to 59 months. This is a crucial chance for those who haven’t received their first dose and for those who missed subsequent doses to catch up. Achieving herd immunity is our overarching objective,” Dr. Adetola emphasized. The yellow fever vaccination will be available to individuals between the ages of 9 months and 44 years, covering approximately 80 percent of Lagos State’s population and forming the backbone of the targeted 21 million residents.
He acknowledged UNICEF’s contributions to bridging the gaps in the campaign and fostering the political will needed for effective healthcare intervention in Lagos. “To achieve our objectives, we need collective action. It’s a monumental task, but through robust partnerships, including collaboration with the media, we can ensure that the public receives accurate and timely information regarding the importance of this vaccination campaign,” he stated.
Dr. Adetola further highlighted the critical need to address immunity gaps resulting from disruptions in routine vaccination schedules. He underscored that preventing diseases through vaccination would not only alleviate pressure on the healthcare system but also ease the financial burden on families. “Vaccination means less financial strain on parents and allows them to focus more on their economic activities rather than caring for a sick child. It’s a win-win for everyone. As a key social welfare tool, vaccination effectively protects citizens,” he asserted.
During the visit to the Badore Primary Health Care Center in Eti-osa, the Chief Nursing Officer, Mrs. Chinyere Osunlana, explained the services offered at the facility. “We’re open for vaccinations every day from Monday to Sunday, and there’s always an officer available to administer the vaccines,” she said. She went on to detail the vaccines provided, including vitamin A, hepatitis B, Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), Penta (a five-in-one vaccine), IPV, measles, yellow fever, and meningitis vaccines. “We ensure that these vaccines are consistently available, and every time someone walks into the facility, there’s assistance ready to help,” she added.
