The Yobe State Primary Healthcare Management Board (YPHMB) has decried the low turnout of residents to get their COVID-19 vaccines.
The Executive Secretary of board, Dr. Babagana Machina lamented residents’ hesitation to the jabs during COVID-19 vaccination campaigns at an Emir’s palace in Potiskum.
“The vaccination exercise was based on the importance of traditional rulers in enlightening their people on government programmes,” he said, stating that the target of the board is to vaccinate 50 percent of residents against the deadly virus.
He said that communities took ownership in the preventive measures by distributing free face masks to the people in markets and motor parks.
According to him, the massive vaccination of people could prevent further spread of disease and boost their immune system against the virus.
He therefore warned against diversions and sale of the ready to use therapeutic food by some parents and health workers.
He also sought support of traditional leaders in tracking the diversion of the therapeutic food meant for malnourished children.
He sought for the support of the traditional leaders halt the diversions, as the therapeutic food is for malnourished children
Responding, the Emir of Fika and Chairman Yobe State Council of Traditional Rulers, Dr. Muhammad Ibn Idrissa said: “We will continue to assist you in sensitizing our people through their district, village and wards head,” urging that the distribution mechanism of the food should be strengthened.
By Mohammed Farouk