The Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, in collaboration with UNICEF, organized a media orientation on Non-Polio Supplemental Immunization Activities (NPSIA) and the Yellow Fever Campaign. The event took place at the STO Resource Center in Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, October 14, 2024. Dr. Abimbola Bowale, the Supervising Permanent Secretary for Lagos State Primary and Healthcare Board, Health District 4, shared insights during an interview with The Tochlight Africa News.
Dr. Abimbola emphasized the importance of vaccination, highlighting the various vaccines available for children. These include the yellow fever vaccine for children aged 9 months to 44 years, measles vaccine for children aged 9 months to 18 months, and HPV vaccine for children aged 9 years to 14 years. He also mentioned other routine immunizations, such as polio vaccines.
The immunization process is set to commence on October 19, 2024, with an initial two-week period to assess coverage. The goal is to achieve 95% coverage. Dr. Abimbola assured that the immunization will be widely available at primary healthcare centers, schools, mosques, motor parks, and through house-to-house and street-to-street outreach programs.
Dr. Abimbola addressed common misconceptions about vaccination, particularly regarding fasting. He emphasized that vaccination is safe and essential for public health. Most biases against vaccination stem from ignorance, and it is crucial to educate the public about the benefits of immunization.
The flag-off ceremony for the immunization campaign is scheduled for October 18, 2024. With UNICEF’s support, the Lagos State government aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services to its citizens, especially children. By promoting immunization, the state hopes to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure a healthier community