Yobe Gov’t launches malaria prevention exercise

Story from Sa’adatu MAINA, Damaturu

Yobe Gov Mai Mala Buni has flagged off Seasonal Malaria Chemo-prevention (SMC) project in the state.

Buni stated at an occasion in Damaturu that the project was aimed at safeguarding the lives of citizens from the dreaded malaria scourge.

“The implementation of the project is being conducted by the Yobe State Government in conjunction with the Federal Government and the Roll Back Malaria partners.

“The aim is to achieve a reduction in malaria morbidity and mortality rate of children less than five years by over 75 per cent.”, he said.

Buni represented by Dr Lawan Gana, the State’s Commissioner for Health also said the project would give anti-malarial treatment to all children less than five years.

“Under the project, we will all give anti-malarial treatment to all children less than 5 years (ideally 4 monthly cycles throughout the peak transmission season).

“Which will increasing the population’s access to case management, including the use of Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT).”

He, therefore, appealed to all traditional rulers, health workers and other stakeholders to intensify efforts in enlightening and sensitizing the populace on personal environmental hygiene.

Dr Babagana Machina, the Executive Secretary Primary Healthcare Management Board represented by Umar Chiromari enjoined the benefiting communities for their full involvement and participation.

He added that “The SMC is generally considered very safe and cost-effective ways to save lives and prevent malaria illness especially during the rainy season in the Sahel region.”

The representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Malam Tatagana Mustapha reiterated determination to support all health-related projects in the state.