Katsina State is targeting 2.7 million children in a fresh polio vaccination campaign scheduled for November as part of efforts to protect children against the disease and strengthen access to essential healthcare.
The exercise will also integrate other health interventions through the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Week and the SARMAAN II Project, which aim to improve access to preventive healthcare for children and pregnant women.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ dialogue, Dr. Mahmud urged journalists, social media influencers, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and U-Reporters to intensify public awareness ahead of the exercise.
He encouraged participants to share accurate and verified information, promote acceptance of the vaccines and urge parents to make their children available for immunisation.
Mahmud also called on stakeholders to counter rumours and misinformation, warning that false information could create fear and discourage families from accepting life-saving health interventions.
The meeting also reviewed the successes and challenges of previous vaccination campaigns, as well as lessons that could improve the November exercise.
Stakeholders agreed on strategies to increase vaccination coverage and ensure that every eligible child is reached and protected.
