70 Polio Variants Recorded In 14 Northern States – FG
The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has reported that Nigeria is currently experiencing a high transmission of the circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2).
Dr. Muyi Aina, the executive director of the agency, revealed this information during an engagement meeting with religious leaders in Abuja, organized by the agency in collaboration with the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development.
According to Dr. Aina, a total of 70 cases of cVPV2 have been recorded in 46 local government areas across 14 northern states. He attributed this to the low routine immunization and vaccine refusal during polio campaigns.
“This is an indication of continuous transmission of the virus due to low routine immunization, and refusal of vaccines during polio campaigns. He said
Dr. Aina emphasized the vital role of religious leaders in improving vaccination, maternal, and child health in their communities. He highlighted the importance of removing barriers to care, ensuring equal access to services, and building trust between healthcare providers and the communities they serve.
The executive director also addressed the challenges in accessing essential maternal and child health services in rural and underserved areas of Northern Nigeria. He expressed concern over the high number of maternal and child deaths due to preventable diseases and complications related to pregnancy and childbirth.
Dr. Aina stressed that Nigeria loses approximately 2,300 children under five years old and 145 women of childbearing age every day, with a majority of these deaths occurring in Northern Nigeria. He urged religious leaders to recommit to improving vaccination, maternal, and child health in their communities.
Also speaking at the event, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, acknowledged the crucial role played by religious and traditional leaders in raising awareness and mobilizing for vaccination, including the eradication of Wild Polio Virus and other health initiatives in the country. He encouraged religious leaders to openly discuss and address the challenges in their communities during the meeting. #polio
Comments
Post a Comment