November 28, 2024
The wife of Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, Yesterday presided over the official launch of the Measles campaign at the Lokongoma Health Facility in Lokoja. The goal of this campaign is to provide life-saving vaccines to children in the state.
Her Excellency, represented by Hon. Dr. Sandra Mimi Musa, Special Adviser for the State Emergency Management Agency, reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to delivering quality healthcare services, including accessible health centers throughout the state.
Measles, also known as Rubeola, is a highly contagious viral disease that affects children worldwide and has been a leading cause of severe complications for many years.
The vaccination campaign targets children aged 9 to 59 months to receive two doses of the vaccine, which is the most effective way to boost immunity against the virus. Honorable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdullazeez Adams Adeiza, represented by Mrs. Dorcas Enehe Omeneke, Permanent Secretary of Kogi State Ministry of Health, emphasized that this ceremony will contribute significantly to reducing measles infections.
During the event, Dr. Abubakar Yakubu, the Executive Director of Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, provided insight into the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of measles. He highlighted that the initial symptoms of measles, which appear 10 to 14 days after exposure, include high fever, red eyes, fatigue, cough, and runny nose. Other symptoms may include muscle pain, sensitivity to light, and a sore throat.
Referring to current statistics, Dr. Yakubu mentioned that over 16,000 suspected cases had been reported.
During the presentation by the State Immunization Officer, Mrs. Apeh Ajuma, the focus was on measles and the importance of vaccinating children at an early age to prevent vaccine-preventable diseases. The goal of the ceremony was to educate, inform, and encourage families to prioritize the health and safety of their children through vaccination.
As the ceremony came to a close, Dr. Austin Ojotule, the State Epidemiologist and Project Coordinator, expressed gratitude for the collaboration of partners and stakeholders. Their efforts, in conjunction with the State Government, are essential in ensuring that every eligible child receives life-saving vaccines.
Rita Priscillia Awokeson, Information Officer II Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency.
