The Pediatric Association of Nigeria – PAN is particular about improving the vaccine coverage in the country and working at reducing issues of zero dose in communities.

The Association has therefore taken action in this regard by training pediatricians in the south-south region of Nigeria on how to promote vaccine uptake in communities.

The Pediatricians who were sensitized on tackling vaccine hesitancy and improving demand generation at a one day workshop in Uyo were also prepared for the upcoming Phase 2 Human Papiloma Virus- HPV vaccination programme.

Also, the training alsobecame necessary following the roll out of the first phase of the HPV vaccine by the federal government to cover Akwa Ibom, 14 others states and the federal Capital Territory FCT.

The initiative formed part of the clinical measures aimed at protecting the teenage girls of ages 9 to 14 in the country against cervical cancer and related diseases.

Speaking with INSPIRATION FM News at the event, the President, Pediatric Association of Nigeria, Prof. EKANEM EKURE said vaccinating the teenage girls (9-14years) will help build immunity that will fight against cervical cancers and other diseases.

 

On her part, Consultant Pediatrician at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Dr FRANCES OKPOKOWURUK noted that the boy child can also be infected with the virus, hence will need vaccination too, while Director General Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency, VIVIEN OTU called on all stakeholders to create more awareness about the HPV vaccine.

 

Some delegates from Rivers and Cross River States at the training had this to say.

The training which is in partnership with the International Pediatric Association will be held in all the regions in the country and it is targeted at raising immunisation champions to sensitize citizens about the HPV vaccines.

The Phase 2 vaccination programme for HPV will commence on May 20, 2024 in some south South states including Rivers, Cross River, Edo, and 18 other states.