Vincent Okoro
The Bayelsa State Primary Healthcare Board has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding children against vaccine-preventable diseases following a statewide post-introduction assessment of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine.
The evaluation exercise, conducted across Bayelsa State, brought together health officials and development partners to review the rollout and effectiveness of the newly introduced vaccine within the state’s immunisation framework.
Executive Secretary of the Board, Williams Appah, described the initiative as a strategic step toward strengthening routine immunisation, noting that it provided an opportunity to assess coverage levels, validate reported data, and identify service delivery gaps.
According to him, the spot check was specifically designed to ensure that all eligible children are reached, particularly those in hard-to-access and underserved communities.
Appah added that insights from the exercise would guide future interventions aimed at expanding vaccine access and improving the overall quality of primary healthcare services in the state.
He emphasized that the Board remains committed to sustaining high immunisation standards through continuous monitoring, enhanced community engagement, and sustained collaboration with health partners.
Reassuring residents, he stated that the state government is focused on building a resilient healthcare system capable of preventing outbreaks of diseases such as Measles and Rubella.
Health stakeholders who participated in the assessment commended the initiative, noting that regular post-introduction evaluations are essential for maintaining the effectiveness of vaccination programmes and strengthening public health outcomes.
The MR vaccine was recently integrated into Bayelsa’s routine immunisation schedule, as part of broader efforts to reduce childhood illness and mortality linked to preventable diseases.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.