Dec 12, 2008 - Flag Off Ceremony Of The Integrated Measles Campaign
This 2008 Integrated Measles Follow-Up Campaign represents another of the many efforts of the State government towards ensuring the survival, protection and healthy growth of our children, the leaders of tomorrow. It will also give all the children who were missed out during the routine immunization to receive their measles vaccination in the course of this campaign which commences today and ends on 16th December 2008.
Measles as we all know is a highly infectious disease that has been identified as one of the leading causes of vaccine preventable deaths among children in this country.
This follow-up campaign is the second phase of the Measles Catch-Up Campaign that took place in the Southern States of Nigeria in October 2006.
It is very important to emphasize that this campaign is being organised at this particular time to ensure that every child under 5 years is immunised before March which is the season when measles transmission usually reaches its peak. In addition, it is also an opportunity to immunise against polio and also administer Vitamin A supplement to children within the ages of six months to five years.
Given the very serious nature of these diseases, I implore all mothers and care givers to please ensure that their children who are within the target age groups are immunised at the designated posts. It does not matter whether or not your child has been immunised before.
The essence of this ceremony is to sensitize the general public and seek the support and active participation of everyone especially community leaders including our Royal fathers in mobilizing mothers and eligible children in our communities so that we can achieve and surpass the minimum target of 95% coverage.
Let us always remember that our children are our future. It is the care, love and attention we give to them today that will determine their tomorrow. Let us therefore join hands in giving them all the care they need to ensure a brighter rewarding future.
I appreciate the support and contributions of the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, WHO, UNICEF, EU – PRIME, COMPASS and other NGOs most especially Rotary International. God bless you all.
I also commend the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, the Special Adviser, the Permanent Secretary and the entire staff for their commitment and dedication to this programme. To our host, the Chairman Ojokoro Local Council Development Area, Hon. Benjamin Olabinjo, I say thank you very much for the interest you have shown in this programme.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to flag off the 2008 Integrated Measles Campaign in Lagos State to the glory of Almighty God and for the brighter rewarding future of our children. I wish everyone merry Christmas and a fulfilling 2009 in advance.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
The First Lady of Lagos State