Turkana County Health Officers in conjunction with USAID Imarisha Jamii will launch a six months’ initiative that aims to reach 70% of the targeted population for Covid 19 vaccination.
According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health, Turkana County has vaccinated 15.6%; over 73,000 out of the targeted population of approximately 470,000. The initiative covers the seven Sub-counties in the County.
Speaking during the launch, Director of Preventive and Promotive Health, Dr. Bonventure Ameyo noted that there was current low Covid-19 vaccine uptake, especially with the relaxation of some of the protocols.
“The future is still uncertain and with the possibility of new variants, we remain at risk especially now with the political campaigns,” said Dr. Ameyo.
Chief of Party – USAID Imarisha Jamii Dr. Chris Barasa said the focus on Covid-19 vaccination during this electioneering period should be a priority.
Leading action points plenary session, Deputy Director Family Health – Alice Akalapatan led the participants to commit to mapping outreach sites, nomination of Covid-19 champions and harmonize the vaccine distributions across the county.
As the chair of the Sub-County Medical Officers of Health (SCMOH), Jacob Emoru from Turkana East SCMOH said that debunking myths and motivating staff are some of the inventions to consider.
This initiative includes components of health promotion, strengthening of county health systems and data management.
Others who spoke during the meeting were Deputy Director Health Promotion & Disease Control – Daniel Esimit, Ag. Director Lodwar County Referral Hospital – Dr Yvonne Musa and Deputy Director Public Health & Sanitation Services – Innocent Sifuna.
By Peter Gitonga
