By Simeon OSAJIE

The Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (EDSPHCDA) on 19th March, 2024 seek the collaboration of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council in disseminating information to the general public particular the girl child between the aged of 9 to 14 the importance to get vaccinated against cervical cancer infection amongst the female folks and educate them on prevention methods.

While addressing members of the State Exco of the Union and other journalists present, Mrs. Irene Uabor, the Head, Health Education Unit, Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EDSPHCDA) said the first phase of the programme was held in 16 States of the federation on 25th October, 2023 while the second phase would be held in 21 States including Edo State in May, 2024 and would be targeting the girl child between age 9 to 14.

Mrs. Uabor said the vaccines could also be gotten from a private hospitals but at a high cost hence, Edo State Government decided to give it free as part of it primary responsibility to provide health care for it citizens.

The agency appealed to parents, caregivers and other stakeholders to get their girl child vaccinated.

Other partner agencies like John Snow Incorporated (HAPPI PROJECT) and World Health Organization (WHO) participated in the programme.

Speaking on behalf of WHO, Mrs. Kate Ogiugo said there was no need to worry as the vaccine will prevent the ailment.

In his response, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Council, commended the state government for giving free vaccines to prevent cervical cancer in women.

He said Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Health has demonstrated good governance and bringing government to the grassroots by providing free healthcare for the people of the state.

Comrade Alenkhe who noted that the health agency has been doing well, suggested a one day training for Edo journalists to be adequately armed with the necessary information to educate the public on the dangers of cervical cancer and the benefits of the HPV vaccine.

The Edo NUJ boss charged journalists in the state to do in-depth investigation to dispel several rumours and misconceptions about the vaccine and educate the public on the need to ensure that target age is reached.