By Eumu Emmanuel
Kaberamaido District: In a proactive move to safeguard its population against the deadly yellow fever virus, Kaberamaido District has officially received a substantial shipment of over 152,000 doses of the yellow fever vaccine. Dr. James Daniel Odongo, the District Health Officer of Kaberamaido District Local Government, confirmed the arrival of the vaccines and declared the district ready to commence the vaccination campaign.
With a population of 155,967 individuals, Kaberamaido District aims to vaccinate approximately 134,000 residents aged between 1 to 60 years. Dr. Odongo highlighted that while the primary focus remains on the district’s populace, the surplus doses will also cater to neighboring districts such as Dokolo, Amolatar, and Kalaki.
The vaccination program, scheduled to span seven days from April 2nd to April 8th, 2024, will be meticulously organized. Dr. Odongo outlined the plan, with the initial four days dedicated to vaccinating students and pupils within schools, followed by three days targeting members of the broader community.
“This concerted effort underscores the district’s commitment to ensuring universal protection against yellow fever, irrespective of age,” affirmed Dr. Odongo.
Tino Grace Esolu, the District Health Educator, underscored the critical role of parents and caretakers in ensuring children receive the vaccine. Emphasizing accessibility, Esolu assured the public that the vaccination services are provided free of charge.
Preparations for the vaccination campaign are well underway, with extensive training sessions conducted for health workers and village health teams across various sub-counties. The vaccination drive will be accessible through government health facilities, outreach programs, and schools, ensuring convenience for all residents.
Yellow fever, a severe viral disease transmitted by mosquito bites, poses a significant health threat, potentially leading to severe illness and even death if left untreated, according to the Ministry of Health.
The proactive measures undertaken by Kaberamaido District serve as a testament to its commitment to public health and community well-being, setting a commendable example for regions nationwide in the fight against infectious diseases.