Chris Awhawha
The Executive Chairman, Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun Hon. Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode, JP FCIA, has officially launched the state-wide measles vaccination for children of aged 9 months to 5 years.
Oyibode while flagging off the excersie on Thursday 10th October, 2024, the Council’s headquarters in Otor-Udu, said the initiative was aimed at protecting children aged 9 months to 5 years from measles, and will run from October 12th to 18th, 2024.
He emphasized the critical nature of the campaign, stating, that “Measles remains a significant public health threat, and it is our duty to protect our most vulnerable population—our children.”
The Udu Council boss assured residents that the vaccination would be administered free of charge at various locations, including schools and health centers across Udu communities.
He urged Community leaders to actively participate in the initiative.
“The success of this campaign does not rest solely on the shoulders of health workers; it relies heavily on your support as community leaders,” he said.
” Inform parents and guardians about the importance of vaccination and encourage them to bring their children for the vaccine. Mobilize Communities: Assist health teams in reaching every eligible child, especially those in remote areas Collaborate with Schools and Religious Institutions: Partner with educational and religious leaders to grant vaccination teams access, ensuring the widest possible coverage.”
He reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the health of Udu residents, emphasizing that “health is wealth.”
Dr. Mrs. Oghoro Mercy, Executive Secretary of Udu Local Government Health Authority, alongside Mrs. Ekokota Joy, Health Promotion Officer, and representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighted the severity of measles as a highly contagious virus.
They explained that it spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms usually appear 8-12 days after exposure and can include fever, tiredness, cough, red eyes, and a blotchy rash. They noted that measles could lead to severe complications, including blindness and deafness.
The health officials assured the people of Udu that the vaccine is safe and effective. They stressed the importance of immunization in preventing the spread of the disease.
The campaign was flagged off with the presence of key officials, including Olorogun Oyibode, his wife, DCNS. Mrs. Abies Oyibode; Vice Chairman, Hon. Mrs. Omovie Oputu Najite Omojewve; the Leader of the Udu Legislative Arm, Rt. Hon. Apunu Henry; Secretary Udu LGC, Hon. Andrew Ekwetafia Gbise JP; and Mr. Joseph Akpodiete, HPM of the Council. Together, they vaccinated children at the event.
The health officials expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government, the WHO, and the Executive Chairman for their support in ensuring the success of the vaccination campaign. It would be recalled that Udu Local Government Council is the first in the state to flag up this campaign exercise.