Ahead of the upcoming Integrated Measles Campaign, the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and key partners, held a one-day engagement meeting with Health Education Teachers. The meeting aimed at achieving a 95% immunization coverage in the state, ensuring that no child between nine to 59 months is left unimmunized during the October 12-18 campaign.
The event, held in Awka, saw participation from Health Education Teachers representing schools across Anambra’s 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs), alongside representatives from partners including the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), UNICEF, WHO, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET).
Pharm Chisom Uchem, Executive Secretary of ASPHCDA, represented by Dr. Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi, Director of Disease Control and Immunization at ASPHCDA, urged the teachers to incorporate immunization education into their curriculum. She emphasized the critical role teachers would play in advocating for immunization and ensuring awareness among school communities.
Mrs. Josephine Erugo of NPHCDA highlighted the importance of educating the teachers about the upcoming Measles vaccination, which is vital for protecting children in Nigeria. Dr. Uju Eze, UNICEF’s SBC Consultant, reiterated UNICEF’s commitment to the well-being of women and children, encouraging teachers to actively participate as health focal persons in their respective LGAs.
Dr. Joseph Agboeze, AFENET Consultant, emphasized his organization’s support for immunization through technical expertise and field officers. CHAI’s Technical Assistant, Mr. Obinna Ezem, urged teachers to spread the knowledge gained during the meeting in their communities to ensure the program’s effectiveness.
In their response, the teachers expressed their commitment to supporting the campaign and pledged to ensure its success across the state.
