By Amos Aar
IN BENUE State, the fight against measles is a desperate race against time with eight local governments currently reeling from outbreaks, leaving countless young lives hanging in the balance.
Amidst this chaos, the state’s health workers, particularly those under the Benue State Primary Health Care (PHC) Board are deeply concerned.
Mr. Emmanuel Beeka, health educator under the Benue State Primary Health Care (PHC) Board, expressed deep concern at a 4-day workshop organised by the Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services in Otukpo for planning cells officers.
Mr Beeka identified some areas in the state that are hard to reach for the immunization program because of insecurity, environmental factors and resistance by parents owing to cultural beliefs and myths.
He however disclosed his plan to introduce measles campaign to ensure that all children who are 59 months and below, that is 9 months to 59 months, are vaccinated against the disease so as to protect them from being infected and also to prevent further spread.
“We cannot afford to lose a single child to measles. Our teams face unimaginable challenges, but we press on, driven by the knowledge that every vaccination saves a life,” Beeka expressed his commitment.
Lamenting alleged resistance and attacks on health workers in the field, Beeka recalled that recently, a vaccination team was brutally attacked, claiming the life of one health worker and leaving another kidnapped, sending shockwaves through the community.
“We will not be deterred. We have sensitised communities, addressed concerns, and overcome rejection. Our goal is to reach every child, no matter the obstacle.
According to him, Benue’s measles outbreak has left scars. In 2009, Ushongo and Buruku local governments were ravaged, claiming many young lives.
