Anambra State introduces Rotavirus Vaccine into Routine Immunization - Realnews Magazine

Anambra State introduces Rotavirus Vaccine into Routine Immunization

Mon, Dec 5, 2022
By editor
4 MIN READ

Health

By Nnedinma Okeke/Chukwudi Nwauba

THE Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and development partners has flagged-off the Rotavirus vaccine into Routine Immunization (RI).

The Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo speaking during the flag-off at Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC), Enugwu-Agidi, Njikoka Local Government Area (LGA) explained that the importance of Rotavirus vaccine cannot be overemphasized as it was very essential to our young ones.

Prof. Soludo who was represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike explained that children lose a greater percentage of their total body weight during vomiting and stooling as a result of diarrhoea.

“This is because the cells in the child’s system have become distorted by the illness. This could make the child lose consciousness which could then lead to death.

“Now we have a solution which is here in form of a vaccine that will lead to reduction in deaths caused by diarrhoea in children,” he explained.

The Governor, then, urged the Traditional and Community leaders to assist in the sensitization of their people as regards to the Rotavirus vaccine which was now available at all health facilities to be given free of charge.

He explained that the state was establishing a strong referral system to aid in prevention of deaths while urging the community to partake in the state’s health insurance scheme as it would help make life easier for all.

The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Dr Chioma Ezenyimulu explained that Rotavirus was highly contagious and the most frequent cause of Severe Diarrhoea in infants and children worldwide.

“Rotavirus spreads via the feaco-oral route and is characterized by diarrhea, vomiting, fever and severe dehydration which may lead to death. Rehydration remains the mainstay of treatment of the infection because it doesn’t respond to antibiotic therapy.

“To prevent this vaccination against Rotavirus is highly indicated. WHO has recommended that Rotavirus Vaccine should be introduced into Routine Immunization with 3 doses given at six weeks, 10 weeks and 14 weeks alongside the Pentavalent Vaccine.

“This introduction is part of a comprehensive and integrated preventive strategy against Diarrhoea diseases,” she explained.

The ES noted that there would be one week RI Intensification in PHCs across the state starting from November 29 to December 6, 2022 for children aged 6 weeks to 23 Months.

She, then, called on mothers and caregivers to bring their children and wards for these live-saving vaccines which are free, safe and effective.

She thanked the Health Commissioner, Njikoka LGA team, Partners, State and LGA health workforce for working selflessly to the success of the event.

The Transition Committee Chairman, Njikoka LGA, Mr. Myclems Aguiyi in his address pleaded for the recruitment of workers for their health facilities while recommending for project vehicles for the PHC Directors in the various LGAs.

He urged communities to participate in taking care of their health facilities as Town Unions should be mobilised in ensuring prosperity of their health facilities.

The State Coordinator, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Mr. Obioha Agbakwuru said that with the launch of Rotavirus vaccine into RI in Nigeria, the country expects a reduction of morbidity and mortality associated with Rotavirus infection.

“The vaccine roll out us supported by Development partners including; GAVI, UNICEF, WHO and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.”

He emphasized that the vaccine when fully administered was expected to bring protection and safeguard the health of every Nigerian child.

He thanked GAVI, the vaccine alliance, the donor community and implementing partners; WHO, UNICEF USAID and all who have been supporting NPHCDA to transform healthcare service delivery with the ultimate goal of saving lives.

He also commended the Media, Traditional and Religious leaders, mothers and other community gatekeepers for their communication and social mobilisation initiatives.

A.

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