The Esu of Bwari in Abuja, Ibrahim Yaro, has expressed hope in the ongoing immunisation against polio and meningitis, saying it would help in improving Nigerians’ health condition.
Yaro said this on Saturday in Bwari while addressing participants at the flag-off of the FCT Immunisation Against Meningitis at the Esu Palace.
“This exercise which starts from today and will end on Monday, Nov. 18 is being carried out in the various communities in Bwari for people who are between the ages of 1 to 29 years.
“The disease is an inflammation caused by infection with viruses, bacteria or other micro-organisms.
“Ìt thrives more during the dry season, which is why this immunisation is important to protect Bwari residents from the scourge,’’ Yaro, who was represented by Mr Lukta Zamishi, the Secretary of Bwari Area Council, said.
He said the exercise was a right step towards the early protection of people from disease infections, such as meningitis and polio, and an improvement on their health.
Yaro however said he was happy with the kick-off of the immunisation in his area because it would help to protect the residents from the outbreak of the disease.
Speaking in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), stakeholders in the health sector have advised that immunising against meningitis enhances productivity and reduces sickness in rural societies.
Some other stakeholders called for awareness on the need for early immunisation, so as to reduce the spread of infection in the area.
Dr Mathew Ashikem, Director of Disease Control, FCT Primary Health Care Board, told NAN that regular immunisation against meningitis and polio could help boost immunity against such infections.
“When people within a particular community are immunised, it will create room for a healthy population and ensure productivity.
“Health is all about the welfare of the people in the community, which can bring about development.
“If the people are healthy, then they can go about their businesses and will be able to engage themselves meaningfully,’’ he said.
Ashikem, who noted that carrying out mass health programmes was costly, commended the Federal Government for bringing health care services to the doorsteps of Bwari residents.
Also speaking, Dr Sunday Goje, Director of Health in the Bwari Area Council, urged governments at all levels to sensitise people on the need to be immunised.
He advised residents in the area to always clean their surroundings and avoid staying within congested environments to avoid infections.
