Chad: information workshop in Sarh on the risks and consequences of childhood illnesses

As part of an initiative to strengthen the prevention of childhood illnesses in the Moyen-Chari province, the Action pour la protection des droits de l'Enfant (APDE) organization, in partnership with the Ministry of Public Health, held an information and exchange workshop on November 06, 2024 at the Palais des arts et de la culture Ngarta Tombalbaye in Sarh, an information and exchange workshop on the risks and consequences of respiratory illnesses, diarrhea and malaria in children aged 0 to 5, for the various socio-professional groups in the Moyen-Chari province.

This event, which brought together local authorities, healthcare professionals, NGOs and members of civil society, was aimed at informing local players of the benefits of PCV and rotavirus vaccines. And secondly, to mobilize the various players to advocate for the rapid and effective introduction of these vaccines into the national vaccination calendar, particularly in Moyen-Chari province, where access to healthcare remains a challenge.

The Moyen-Chari provincial health delegate noted that these vaccines are essential tools for saving lives. He pointed out that the introduction of the PCV and rotavirus vaccines in our country, and more specifically in the province of Moyen-Chari, will mark a turning point in the reduction of infant mortality.

The representative of the Ministry of Public Health detailed the challenges linked to the introduction of the new vaccines, explaining their importance in the fight against childhood diseases, which continue to disproportionately affect children under the age of five in Moyen-Chari province.

The Prefect of the Barh-Kôh department, Oumar Ali Nanina, stressed the importance of the commitment of all local players, including community leaders, parents' associations, administrative authorities and health workers.associations, administrative authorities and health workers, to ensure adherence to this new vaccination policy.

"It's crucial that every parent, every family, understands that vaccination is the key to protecting our children from serious, preventable diseases. We need to raise awareness in our communities, particularly in rural areas, so that no one is left behind," said the Prefect of the Barh-Kôh department, Oumar Ali Nanina.

Discussions ensued between the participants, who raised questions about the challenges to be overcome to ensure effective vaccination coverage in remote areas.

Among the main concerns raised were the availability of vaccines in health centers, ongoing training for medical staff, and raising community awareness of the importance of vaccination.

Participants also discussed the need to strengthen vaccine distribution logistics, improve access to care in the most remote areas, and ensure ongoing awareness-raising among populations.

Source: www.alwihdainfo.com/