The Kano State Government has launched a vigorous Polio Vaccination Exercise in Gabasawa LGA to address the recent resurgence of Polio Virus in several states of the Federation.
The State Governor, Alh. Abba Kabir Yusuf, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to support the fight against the reemergence of the disease during the official launch event on Saturday.
“The decision to start the campaign in Gabasawa was due to it having the highest ratio of unvaccinated children in the state, as per health reports,” stated Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, underlining the significance of targeting areas with higher vulnerability.
In response to the concerning situation, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf acknowledged the support of various national and international donors, stating, “Various national and international donors, such as WHO, UNICEF, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the African Field Epidemiology Network, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Dangote Foundation, and the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, have provided resources to support the fight against the Polio Virus.”
Dr. Abubakar Labaran, the state Commissioner for Health, urged parents to actively participate in ensuring their children receive proper vaccination.
He also highlighted the plans for vaccine distribution in various LGAs, stating, “The Kano Primary Health Care Development Agency would begin distributing syringes for vaccination in various LGAs from the following week.”
Dr. Labaran further appealed to the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency for increased vaccine supplies, noting, “Not only for under 5 children but also for over 20 million people, including pregnant women.”
Representatives from the local community expressed appreciation for the launch of the exercise in Gabasawa LGA and voiced concerns for improved healthcare facilities.
The Emir of Gaya, Alh. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, represented by District Head of Gabasawa, Alh. Sani Dawaki, stated, “We appreciate the state government for launching the exercise in Gabasawa LGA and request improvements in Gabasawa hospitals and an increase in the number of doctors for better health service delivery.”
In response, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf assured that all hospitals in the state, including Gabasawa LGA hospital, will be improved to ensure an effective response to health issues.
With a united effort from the government, healthcare agencies, donors, and active parental participation, Kano State aims to counter the resurgence of polio and safeguard the health of its citizens.
