Edo etate governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has flagged off free malaria testing, treatment and distribution of drugs for residents.
Okpebholo who discribed malaria as a major health challenge said his administration is determined to combat the scourge in the state “just
like Algeria, Ivory Coast and Mauritius have done.”
He noted that the free malaria treatment programme was with support from the Islamic Development Bank, adding, “my administration is also committed to affordable healthcare services in the state.”
Continuing, he said: “over the next two years, my administration aims to
ensure 80 percent of pregnant women in the State receive malaria prevention kits and treatment.
“Also, 95 percent of people in the State will benefit and reduce infant death caused by Malaria to below 10 percent.
“We need everyone’s support. While free testing and treatment are in place, we need to raise awareness because it is key. We will run campaigns to ensure everyone is aware of the services.
“We appreciate President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his commitment to better healthcare. We thank the Islamic Development Bank for its funding and support and the Federal Ministry of Health for its guidance.”
On his part, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, said all government hospitals will receive patients for malaria and they will be tested and treated free-of-charge in the next two years.
Also, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edesili Anani Okpebholo, commended the Okpebholo-led administration for taking the laudable step in ensuring the people enjoy good healthcare.
She discribed malaria as deadly if left untreated, adding, “statistics show that 30 percent of citizens of the State are exposed to it, and the government has taken steps to fight and drastically reduced it.”
