By Blessing Otobong-Gabriel
Rotary District 9127 has reaffirmed the importance of continued immunization and advocacy efforts in the fight against polio, saying that despite significant progress, the disease remains a threat in two countries, underscoring the need for sustained action.
Doctor Kadijat Kuburat Yusuf, the District Polio Chair, Rotary District 9127 disclosed this at a novelty football match yesterday in Abuja to support polio eradication efforts
The District Polio Chair informed that Polio eradication requires persistent efforts and we must maintain momentum through continued immunization and advocacy, ensuring all children are protected.
The Rotary Club’s commitment to polio eradication includes: supporting immunization campaigns, promoting awareness and education and advocating for policy support.
She stressed that Rotary District 9127 is committed to eradicating polio. Despite progress, our work is far from over. Continued immunization and advocacy are crucial to protecting all children. Let’s work together to create a polio-free world.”
“Our advocacy approach emphasizes the benefits of a polio-free life: ‘Imagine a child who can play, run, and thrive without the burden of polio.’ This resonates with parents, driving increased acceptance”.
Rotarian Ayodele Steven, Publicity Secretary of Rotary District 9127 said, the District organized a football novelty match to raise awareness and funds for polio eradication. This event underscores Rotary commitment to supporting global efforts to eliminate the disease.
He hinted that despite remarkable progress, polio remains a threat in Pakistan and Afganistan, underscoring the need for continued immunization and advocacy.
According to him, effective advocacy has significantly boosted vaccine acceptance, increasing strong immunity and protecting children from poliovirus infection. While pockets of resistance persist, most mothers recognize the vital importance of polio vaccination.
“Although polio has been largely eradicated, our work isn’t done yet. As long as it persists in two countries, we must continue to immunize our children through sustained awareness and advocacy”.
President of president of Abuja Rotary Clubs, Rotarian Rabbi Mohammed, said effective advocacy ensures that immunization is widely accepted. When mothers understand the importance of vaccination, they willingly accept it when vaccinators visit. This increases herd immunity, strengthens children’s immune systems, and protects them from poliovirus infection.
“While some pockets of resistance remain, most mothers recognize the value of polio vaccination. Through targeted awareness campaigns, we’ve increased herd immunity, strengthened children’s immune systems, and protected them from poliovirus infection.
“Advocacy efforts focus on the benefits of vaccination, highlighting the devastating consequences of polio. By emphasizing the value of healthy childhood development, we’ve seen significant increases in vaccine acceptance.”
