Rotary District 9127 Hosts Awareness Drive, Calls for Continued Polio Immunization
Rotary International District 9127 Nigeria has reinforced the importance of ongoing immunization and advocacy efforts in the fight against polio, noting that despite significant progress, the disease remains a threat in countries such as Afghanistan and Pakistan.
This ongoing risk underscores the need for sustained action and global solidarity in eliminating the disease.
In Abuja, during a novelty football match organized as part of World Polio Day 2024 celebrations, District 9127 Polio Chair Rotarian Kadijat Kuburat Yusuf emphasized that polio eradication requires continuous dedication. “We must maintain momentum through persistent immunization and advocacy, ensuring all children are protected,” she stated, highlighting the district’s ongoing commitment to the cause.
Rotary District 9127’s polio eradication efforts include supporting immunization campaigns, raising awareness, and advocating for policy support. Yusuf noted, “While we have made remarkable progress, the work is far from over. Continued immunization and advocacy are essential to protect all children, and we must collaborate with relevant partners to create a polio-free world.”
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The district’s advocacy strategy also underscores the life-changing benefits of a polio-free life. “Imagine a child who can play, run, and thrive without the burden of polio,” Yusuf added, noting that this message resonates strongly with parents and fosters vaccine acceptance.
Rotary District 9127 Publicity Secretary Rotarian Ayodele Steven explained that the football match aimed to raise awareness and push for increased funding to support polio eradication efforts. He emphasized that while polio has largely been contained, variant outbreaks in areas like Gaza highlight the need for continued vigilance, immunization, and advocacy.
Steven shared that effective advocacy has significantly improved vaccine acceptance, creating stronger immunity and protecting children from poliovirus. “Though pockets of resistance persist, most mothers recognize the vital role of polio vaccination in safeguarding their children’s health.”
Rotarian Rabbi Mohammed, President of the Abuja Rotary Club, further emphasized the impact of advocacy in gaining public support for immunization. “When mothers understand the importance of vaccination, they willingly accept it when vaccinators come by. This increases herd immunity and helps protect children from polio,” he explained.
Through targeted awareness campaigns, Rotary District 9127 aims to bolster vaccine acceptance by highlighting the consequences of polio and the critical role of vaccination in childhood development.
