Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
At a one-day seminar organized by UNICEF in conjunction with the Oyo State Ministry of Information, held at Accident Oyo Town, Mrs. Aderonke Akinola Akinwole, UNICEF’s Social Behavior Change Specialist, emphasized the importance of immunization in protecting children from deadly diseases.
The seminar, tagged “Media Orientation on HPV/Non-Polio Supplemental Immunization Integrated Activities,” aimed to educate media professionals on the significance of vaccine awareness and their role in promoting immunization.
Mrs. Akinwole warned parents and guardians against spreading misinformation about vaccines, particularly for public health diseases like smallpox, polio, and measles. She urged parents to ignore rumors and ensure their children receive lifesaving vaccinations.
UNICEF has identified socio-group behavior and religious beliefs as key factors in vaccine misconceptions, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic. To address this, UNICEF designed strategies to educate religious leaders, stakeholders, and social groups about vaccine safety.
The organization will partner with state governments and stakeholders for an upcoming Measles vaccination campaign from October 5th to 11th, 2024. UNICEF urges journalists to use their platforms to promote vaccine awareness and encourage parents to protect their children.
“Don’t deny your children the right to live safer lives.
“Immunization is crucial for a disease-free life, and we must work together to ensure our children receive the vaccinations they deserve”, Akinwole said.
The seminar was attended by media professionals, healthcare workers, and stakeholders from Oyo, Ekiti, Osun, Ondo, and Ogun states.
