Enugu achieved "101%" measles, rubella immunisation coverage - Health Commissioner

The Enugu State Government says the state exceeded the national measles and rubella immunisation target of 85 per cent, achieving "101 percent" through "field commitment and inter-ministerial collaboration."

The Commissioner for Health, Prof George Ugwu, made this known to newsmen in Enugu on Saturday while reacting to the just-concluded national immunisation held in the state between Feb. 4 and Feb. 13.

According to Ugwu, the success is attributed to a comprehensive team-based strategy involving coordination across gender, poverty alleviation, information, education, traditional leadership, religious institutions, and local government structures. 

The commissioner appreciated the exceptional support from Gov. Peter Mbah that had transformed the health system and demonstrated the effectiveness of integrated and synergistic approaches to healthcare delivery..

"With Gov. Mbah backing, all our Primary Healthcare Centers and the cool-chain systems are getting the measles and the rubella vaccines and are being preserved at the right temperatures making it effective.

"Your Excellency have not left us unsupported, currently we are recruiting and employing in thousands of Primary Healthcare workers that you have given to us, and that is why we are able to deliver on this assignment. 

"We are most grateful for the support and the backing you are giving to the health system to make it better and it is really getting better," he said.

Ugwu also commended the governor's right engagement with the health workers and how he had ensured that their welfare are timely taken care of.

"Your Excellency, we are so happy that you are not only helping us to engage the healthcare workers, you are also looking at their welfare. 

"Currently in our teaching hospital, everybody is saying they want to do internship in ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane, some are saying they want to do Residency in Enugu State.

"This is because of the right infrastructure and the right leadership you have put in place in Enugu State,' he noted.

Ugwu, a respected Professor of Obstetric and Gynecology, recalled a recent visit by a National Assembly Health Committee Team that commended Gov. Mbah's efforts on health and left with positive impressions.

The successful statewide immunisation was meant for children between the ages of nine and 14.