Media organizations and professionals have been charged to support efforts in the fight against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) through vaccination campaigns.
This was announced during a Media Advocacy Meeting on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines, Non Polio Supplemental Immunization Activity (NPSIA), and Routine Immunization, held on Thursday, October 10, 2024, in Igbara-Oke, Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Speaking at the meeting, the Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, described the media as a powerful tool to shape public perception, influence policy, and drive action through accurate and consistent messaging.
This, he emphasized, is essential to dispelling myths and combating misinformation, ensuring that every family and individual is well informed about disease prevention and the importance of vaccination.
Akinlosotu, who was represented by the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Akarakiri, stated that the deadly HPV virus could be tackled by providing accurate information and raising awareness, particularly among grassroots communities.
According to the Commissioner, the state government has left no stone unturned in its fight against diseases detrimental to public health. He appreciated UNICEF and other agencies for supporting the state government in safeguarding the well-being of its people, especially children, who are the leaders of tomorrow.
“Combating Human Papillomavirus and other deadly diseases is a collective responsibility shared by healthcare providers, public health officials, educators, parents, and the media,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for stakeholders to strengthen efforts on the immunization of children against deadly diseases, which is crucial to achieving the desired outcomes.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu, represented by the Director of Disease Control and Immunization, Dr. Victor Adefesoye, commended the media for their efforts in reaching communities. He noted that the state achieved the 80% vaccination target, earning it the first position among participating states in the Southwest.
He disclosed that Nigeria will soon introduce a malaria vaccine, similar to Cameroon and other developed countries where it is already in use. He also stressed the importance of routine immunization and advocated for men to include the vaccination of their children as part of their daily routines, ensuring they are taken to hospitals for immunization.
Vaccines, Dr. Akanbiemu said, are the most cost-effective and easiest way to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Also, UNICEF Social and Behavioral Change Specialist, Aderonke Akinola Akinwole, recognized the media as formidable partners in upholding the rights of children in Ondo State. She expressed her trust in the media to use their various platforms to promote and protect children’s rights so they can reach their God-given potential.
Ondo State Immunization Officer, Mrs. Florence Fadiji, emphasized the need for media messages to ensure that every child receives vaccinations for community protection. She urged media organizations to create awareness and use their platforms to consistently share information about immunization and upcoming vaccination drives.
Fadiji noted that the HPV vaccine is provided free of charge to girls aged nine to fourteen, and the immunization period will run until December 2024.
