The country”s World Health Organization (WHO) Director, Dr. Walter Kazadi Molumbo, led representatives from various international agencies have partnered with the Katsina State government on initiatives and strengthening of immunization efforts against the ongoing diptheria outbreaks.
A meeting was held with the Katsina State Government, led by Malam Dikko Umaru Radda.
At the meeting held at the state government house on Thursday, Dr. Molumbo emphasized the importance of collaboration between the international health agency and the new administration to align investments and resources with the government’s manifesto and priorities.
Molumbo stressed on the urgent need to bolster routine immunization efforts, particularly in light of the ongoing diphtheria outbreak, pointing out that the outbreak serves as a clear signal of immunity challenges within the community, particularly among children. He also stressed the importance of revitalizing primary healthcare and extending efforts beyond routine immunization.
“The recent diphtheria outbreaks highlight the vulnerabilities in our community’s health,” Dr. Molumbo stated. “We must reinvigorate routine immunization in primary healthcare to ensure the well-being of our children and the overall population.”
The WHO Country Director commended the collaborative efforts of various organizations in responding to the outbreak. He however noted that while progress has been made in combating wild polio virus transmission, the challenge of vaccine-derived polio remains. Molumbo expressed optimism about Katsina’s role in achieving success against these health threats.
“The partnership between Katsina and neighboring Zamfara is crucial in stemming the spread of these viruses,” Dr. Molumbo emphasized. “Katsina’s efforts are vital in preventing the further outbreak and transmission of these diseases.”
