In its quest to minimise deaths resulting from Tetanus infections, the Borno state government in partnership with the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF and partners have immunised over one million women of reproductive age against tetanus.
According to Executive Director, State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Lawi Mshelia, Tetanus is a preventable disease, but Nigeria is yet to eliminate the burden because of low immunization coverage.
Mshelia who was speaking at a one-day orientation for media, traditional and religious leaders on maternal and neonatal tetanus in Maiduguri revealed the Borno state government in collaboration with other partners have successfully covered 94 per cent during the first round.
While speaking on the successes recorded, the WHO State Coordinator, Borno State Field Office, Dr. Ibrahim Salisu, explained they were working closely with the government to ensure the death rates resulting from the disease are reduced.
“We are working with Borno state government, UNICEF and partners to ensure that women of child-bearing age and the children targeted are adequately reached during this round of the campaign. This campaign is integrated with Measles, Routine Immunization and COVID-19 vaccination.
“WHO has been supporting the Borno state government to strengthen the Primary Health Care system. We are working to ensure people in Borno state including those in security-compromised LGAs have access to qualify life-saving services,” he said.
The WHO State Coordinator used the opportunity to call on traditional and community leaders to encourage the people to come out and take up the services as well urged women to avail themselves and their children of the opportunity to receive the vaccines.
