In preparation for the third round of the Big Catch-Up (BCU) vaccination campaign, the Anambra State Primary HealthCare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health and partners, held a one-day planning and stakeholders engagement meeting aimed at improving immunization coverage across the state.
The meeting brought together Social Mobilization Officers from nine previously low-performing Local Government Areas — Aguata, Ayamelum, Anaocha, Idemili North, Idemili South, Ihiala, Orumba North, Orumba South, and Nnewi South. Also in attendance were representatives from WHO, NPHCDA, UNICEF, Ministry of Information, Education, Women Affairs, Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, ASUBEB, Red Cross, Civil Society Organizations, media, and the National Orientation Agency.
Executive Secretary of ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem, represented by the Director of Disease Control and Immunization, Dr. Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi, said the meeting was organized to review the successes and challenges from the first and second rounds of the campaign and to strategize for improved outcomes in the third round. He stressed that the campaign aims to close immunization gaps for children who missed routine vaccinations or had never been vaccinated.
WHO representative, Mr. Ndubisi Oji, disclosed that Anambra recorded 96% and 94% coverage during the first and second BCU rounds respectively. He called for continued commitment to surpass those figures in the third round. UNICEF’s Strategic Behavioral Change Consultant, Dr. Uju Eze, praised stakeholders for their dedication and encouraged them to adopt more innovative approaches to improve awareness and participation.
State Immunization Officer, Mrs. Edith Onwuka, stated that the state had exceeded its 65% target coverage in previous rounds, helping to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. She noted that the third round is critical as it will complete the immunization schedule for children vaccinated earlier.
The campaign, which focuses on Penta, PCV, IPV, and BOPV antigens, will run from April 22 to 27, 2025.
State Health Educator, Mrs. Uju Onwuegbuzina, expressed gratitude to UNICEF, WHO, and all partners for their ongoing support in ensuring the success of the vaccination campaign in Anambra State.
