Yola (Nigeria): Adamawa Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ADSPHCDA), in collaboration with United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), says it is targeting no fewer than 2 million children in the forthcoming integrated measles and polio vaccination campaign.
Dr James Vasumu, Director of Disease Control and Immunisation at ADSPHCDA, made this disclosure in Yola on Wednesday during a media dialogue preceding the campaign scheduled for Oct. 18 to 28.
According to him, the campaign will cover Routine Immunisation for children from zero to 23 months, Measles-Rubella for those aged nine months to 14 years, polio for those aged zero to 59 months, and HPV for girls aged nine years.
He expressed concern over the spread of misinformation about vaccines, urging journalists to set the record straight by continuing to raise awareness that the vaccine “is safe and it’s free.”
Dr Suleiman Bashir, Executive Chairman of ADSPHCDA, said the integrated approach allows them to address both measles and rubella at once and ensure broader protection for children.
According to him, the consequences of measles can be irreversible; it may lead to blindness, brain damage, and even death if care is not taken.
Dr Bashir explained that the inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the campaign aligns with ongoing efforts to raise awareness about cancer prevention, especially among young girls.
“Once a girl receives the HPV vaccine at around nine years old, she grows into adulthood with strong protection against cervical cancer,” he said.
He further urged participants to apply the knowledge acquired to create accurate awareness, dispel misinformation, and promote healthcare service in the state and country at large.
Mr George Eki, Social and Behavioural Change (SBC) Specialist, UNICEF, Bauchi Field Office, appreciated the contribution of media in behavioural change and solicited more.
“The media is essential for raising awareness. We have many people living in rural communities and urban centres who need to know that the campaign starts on Saturday.
“This campaign is an integrated campaign, and also includes polio and even HPV, as part of the vaccines that are going to be given to children.
“We want that positive behaviour change that can make parents make informed decisions”, he said.
According to him, the vaccination benefits everyone, from the parents to the community and government.
