Accra: Mr. Edem Afeeva, the Director of the Ayawaso West Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), emphasized the necessity of ensuring that all Ghanaian children receive vaccinations, regardless of their geographic location. He highlighted that equitable access to vaccination is a fundamental right and a crucial aspect of safeguarding public health in the face of emerging and re-emerging diseases.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Afeeva made these remarks during a child health promotion programme held in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) in Accra. The theme of the event was 'Every Child Deserves a Healthy Future; Invest in Your Child by Attending Weigh-In Regularly.' The initiative aims to intensify efforts to enhance the uptake of child vaccination and health services among parents and caregivers, particularly those with children under five years of age.
Mr. Afeeva discussed the extensive benefits of immunisation for children, families, and communities. He emphasized that vaccinating every child in Ghana could significantly reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases. He noted that immunisation not only protects children from life-threatening illnesses but also reduces the time parents and caregivers spend away from work caring for sick children. When children remain healthy and consistently attend school, their academic performance improves, which contributes to their overall development.
The NCCE Director explained that widespread vaccination protects vulnerable individuals who might not be eligible for certain vaccines, including newborns. He noted that routine immunisation could help limit the spread of antimicrobial resistance by reducing the need for antibiotics, which are often used to treat vaccine-preventable infections. Citing the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Mr. Afeeva warned that failing to immunise children undermines their fundamental right to the highest attainable standard of health and access to healthcare facilities.
Dr. Akua Adutwumwaa Boamah Addy, the Ayawaso West Municipal Director of Health, and her team engaged over 300 participants on the timing of various childhood vaccines. Dr. Addy urged caregivers to remain proactive and interested in child health matters, emphasizing the critical role that each vaccine plays at specific stages of a child's development. She encouraged caregivers to ensure full vaccination coverage for their children.