The Cross River State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Egbe Ayuk, has stressed the importance of integrated programming to advance immunization and other child health prevention programs. Dr. Ayuk made this call during the launch of the polio immunization cycle in the state at the Ikot Omin Primary Healthcare Centre in Calabar NEGROIDHAVEN has learnt.
While commending the State Primary Health Care Development Agency for its efforts in increasing immunization coverage, Dr. Ayuk called for cost-effective and efficient delivery of primary health services through stronger partnerships. He emphasized the need to integrate immunization with other disease programs such as COVID-19, malaria, and deworming, among others, to maximize the impact of healthcare initiatives.
Dr. Ayuk reminded organizers of the global directive of primary healthcare under one roof, highlighting its potential to deliver efficient and effective primary healthcare services.
During the event, the Health Commissioner urged parents to ensure their children receive vaccinations, emphasizing that prevention is a superior approach to healthcare compared to curative interventions.
Dr. Inyang Asibong, a former Commissioner for Health in the state, represented the Wife of the Governor, Rev. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, and administered vaccines to children, officially launching the immunization cycle in the state. This immunization program targets children aged from zero to fifteen years and will run from September 16 to September 19, 2023.
