The Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA) organised an orientation programme to sensitize key stakeholders and the media in preparation of the Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign. The Director General of Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA) Dr Vivien Mesembe Otu, elaborated the benefits of the Measles-Rubella vaccine. She said the vaccine protects children against measles and rubella infections, prevent serious complications such as pneumonia and congenital rubella syndrome.
Dr Vivien Otu clarified that the Vaccination Campaign targets children aged 0month to 14 years across the state. She said the exercise which is scheduled to take place from 3rd to 14th February, will be conducted across the various local government areas to ensure all eligible children are reached.
She urged local government chairmen across the state to cooperate fully in other to ensure the success of the Vaccination Campaign. "The commitment and active involvement of local government authorities are crucial to achieve widespread coverage, strengthen grassroots mobilisation and deliver the vaccine efficiently to eligible children across all communities" she said.
Dr Otu noted that strong media collaboration remains vital to achieve widespread public awareness and successful implementation of the campaign. A representative of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) Mr Christian Okechukwu highlighted the crucial role of the media in countering rumours and correcting public ignorance about the MR vaccine.
Mr Okechukwu urged journalists to report accurately and to actively participate in sensitizing communities. "Responsible media coverage is key to the success of the Vaccination Campaign" He said. Director Disease Control and Immunisation, Mr's Kasi Eyong stressed that the vaccine is safe, effective and free of charge.
Mrs Eyong reiterated that the exercise is aimed at reducing morbidity and Mortality associated with Measles and Rubella, prevent outbreaks and strengthen routine Immunisation coverage. "Journalist should work closely with health authorities to ensure accurate and consistent information dissemination about the campaign "she said
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