From: Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
Benue State government yesterday commenced the vaccination of Astrazeneca vaccine against Covid-19 on its citizens.
The event was flagged off at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, BSUTH.
In his speech, Governor Samuel Ortom noted that a lot of efforts have been made to control the Disease but the virus continues to spread at unprecedented speed affecting most vulnerable group, adding that the rapid spread emphasised the need for an aggressive response and improved efforts to contain the infection.
He maintained that vaccination with safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines is a critical part of Nigeria’s strategy to interrupt the COVID-19 pandemic and curb transmission of the virus.
The Governor called on Benue people to voluntarily present themselves for COVID-l9 VACCINATION and be available to take the second dose in twelve(12) weeks time.
“As we take the Vaccine, we must also continue to observe COVID-19 prevention Protocols including frequent hand washing; use of alcohol based Hand sanitizer; maintenance of physical distance; use of face masks, etc
“I Wish to acknowledge the role of health workers and especially Benue COVID-19 Action Committee team led by HE, Deputy Governor for their roles in the control of this pandemic, some have lost their lives. The various roles and support of partners, Traditional and Religious leaders can never go unmentioned”,the Governor said
The State Commissioner for Health Dr. Joseph Ngbea disclosed that 73,810 vacs were sent to the State which is just a drop in an Ocean, intimating they have been distributed to the 23 local government areas.
He said the first phase is for health workers who are in the frontline, people serving the public as well as strategic leaders, stating that government will give its contribution to acquire more vaccines.
“That is why I have taken the jab to represent strategic leaders and after that we will scale down.
“Am impressed with the turn out today because what we heard was that, there is a lot of confusion, rejection and all that but I keep saying that even if you take Panadol, you will have side effects and when you go up for injection, you must have pains.
