The FCT Minister of State, Dr Ramatu Aliyu, on Monday inaugurated the Federal Capital Territory Administration‘s second round of polio immunisation in response to the recent outbreak of the virus in parts of the country.
The minister, who performed the exercise at the Area 2 Primary Healthcare Centre, Garki, Abuja, vaccinated two new born babies as the chief vaccinator.
She urged mothers to take the vaccination seriously, ensure proper hygiene and come out and vaccinate their babies to ensure the eradication of polio.
” We want the status to be maintained. I know mothers are the most excited people in the world especially with a new born babies. However, follow all the processes as directed by medical personnel.
” Also, be reminded that the COVID-19 pandemic is not yet over, therefore keep observing all the protocols by wearing your face mask and keeping physical distancing.
” I am happy you are all wearing your face mask, keep doing that even in market places,” Aliyu said.
She assured that the FCT would participate in the October National Immunization Plus Days when children below age five in the FCT and the 36 states of the federation would have another opportunity to be vaccinated with the potent novel oral polio vaccine.
Aliyu also commended the partner agencies including WHO and UNICEF for their support with logistics, in advocacy, communication and social mobilization, while charging the area councils to expand their reach.
Earlier, the Acting Secretary, FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr Iwot Ndaeyo, said the first round was conducted in the five area councils of Abaji, Abuja Municipal, Bwari, Kuje and Kwali in August, 2021.
According to him, FCT was due for the second round in the month of September, 2021.
He stated that the first-round report showed Abaji, Kwali and Bwari area councils performed well and passed the end process evaluation at first test.
” While Abuja Municipal and Kuje area councils had to undertake mop-up exercises to meet the required coverage and eventually passed the end process test,” the official said.(NAN)
