From Habiba Aniekan Sam
BENIN CITY
The Edo government has taken a significant step in curbing vaccine-preventable diseases by partnering with the media and civil society organizations (CSOs).
A recent one-day review meeting was held in Benin City, bringing together stakeholders to improve vaccine trust and uptake in the state.
According to the programme director, Mrs. Rose Imonikhe, the meeting aimed to reverse the trend of apathy towards vaccine uptake among Edo people.
She emphasized the need for sensitization and enlightenment campaigns to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.
The permanent secretary, Ministry of Communication and Orientation, Dr. Desmond Agbama, reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the health status of Edo people.
He stressed the importance of intensifying awareness campaigns, especially with the prevalence of polio.
The state immunization officer, Mrs. Omogun Enogie Elfrida, highlighted the strategies for achieving routine immunization, including fixed post session, outreach sessions and mobile sessions.
She noted that 88 per cent of the target population has received Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, with 12 per cent yet to be vaccinated.
The media and CSOs play a crucial role in raising awareness about vaccine uptake and preventing the spread of misinformation. They can help mobilize communities, foster trust and promote social and community responsibility aspects of vaccination.
By collaborating with the media and CSOs, the Edo State Government aims to strengthen outreach, joint campaigns, two-way communication and crisis management.
This partnership is a significant step towards improving vaccine trust and uptake in the state.
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