The Anambra State Government, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has organized a one-day retreat for 21 Local Government Chairmen, LG Health Directors, Supervisors and partners in the delivery of integrated health services. primary health care (PHC) throughout the state.
The retreat aims to ensure the adoption of routine immunization, vaccine acceptance and optimal delivery of healthcare services across the state and that the 21 LG presidents take full ownership of health in their various areas of local government.
The event which took place on Thursday in Awka was also attended by the 21 local government chairmen of the state, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, traditional rulers, representatives of the World Health Organization ( WHO) and other relevant actors in the health sector.
Declaring the event open, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Ben Obidike, lamented the low level of acceptance of immunization vaccines in the state.
According to him, despite the demonstrated benefits of immunization, vaccine acceptance remains a critical challenge, particularly in regions such as some local government areas of Anambra State.
“Rejection of vaccines despite the availability of vaccination services is a complex issue influenced by multiple factors, including misinformation, cultural beliefs, lack of trust in health systems, poor awareness campaigns and the fear of side effects.
“In some cases, religious doctrines and traditional practices further contribute to low acceptance rates, leaving many communities vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases.
“Addressing this issue requires coordinated strategies to educate communities, build trust, and strengthen the delivery of immunization services across the state.
“We must improve the low level of vaccine acceptance in the state. Immune vaccines are well certified by the World Health Organization,” he noted.
The Commissioner further noted that the engagement meeting aims to develop the institutional capacity and response capacity necessary to ensure and improve the delivery of primary health care services in the 179 communities of the state.
He also urged the participants to intensify awareness campaigns on the benefits of immunization in their different areas of the council.
Executive Secretary State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Pharm. Chisom Uchem thanked the participants for their support in healthcare in the state.
The Aguata LG Chairman, Dr Chibueze Offorbuike, who is also the State Chairman of ALGON, who spoke on behalf of the others, assured the commitment of the 21 LG Chairmen to address the issues raised.
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