Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Central Drives Polio Awareness and Public Health Campaigns in Port Harcourt
By Rtn Precious W Ahiakwo
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – The Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Central, led by their Magical President, Ifunanya Bertrand, *during the Polio week*, launched series of impactful public health initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about polio vaccination and promoting community hygiene. The efforts are part of Rotary’s ongoing mission to eradicate polio and improve health *outcomes* for vulnerable populations.
The club President, Rtn. Ifunanya Bertrand led a comprehensive awareness campaign at a Model Primary Health Center (MPHC) Rumueprikom, focused on educating mothers about the vital importance of polio vaccination.
She emphasized that although Africa is on the verge of eradicating polio, recent cases in some African countries serve as a reminder that the disease is still a threat. Bertrand reassured mothers that the polio vaccine is both safe and essential, urging them not to skip any dose.
“Polio can strike at any age,” Bertrand stated, “so it’s crucial that children complete their vaccination schedule to ensure full protection.”
On her part, Rtn. Lucy Ugo Nwazuo, Polio-Plus Chair of the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Central, expressed her commitment to the club’s polio awareness efforts, emphasizing the need for ongoing community engagement and education. “Polio remains a threat as long as even one child is left unvaccinated,” Nwazuo stated. “Our goal is to ensure that every parent understands the importance of completing the polio vaccine doses. This is not just about individual protection; it’s about safeguarding our entire community and contributing to a polio-free future.”
She praised the commitment shown by mothers attending the event and encouraged them to be ambassadors for polio awareness within their communities.
To further solidify the message, the club commissioned an “End Polio” billboard at Elekahia by Stadium Road junction. This highly visible billboard serves as a daily reminder to the public about the importance of continuing the fight against polio and ensuring children receive timely vaccinations. The bill board was commissioned by the Rotary International District 9141, Governor, Chinedu Ikegwuani.
Expanding Health Education: Hygiene and Menstrual Health Outreach
*In addition to the polio awareness campaign, Dr. Abraham Ephraim Jaja, a healthcare advocate, delivered a crucial talk at the Model Primary Health Center in Rumueprikom. During his session, he reinforced the necessity of completing the polio vaccination regimen, while also emphasizing the importance of general hygiene practices to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.*
The Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Central also expanded its efforts to promote hygiene and address menstrual health challenges at the Community Secondary school Rumueprikom. As part of the club’s “Pad a Girl” initiative, Dr. Jaja also spoke to the young girls of Rumueprikom Community Secondary School, where he addressed the issue of menstrual hygiene. This initiative coincided with the celebration of International Day of the Girl Child and the club provided over 200 girls with sanitary pads. The project aims to empower young girls with the resources and knowledge they need to manage their menstrual health, thereby reducing school absenteeism during menstruation and promoting overall well-being.
Global Hand washing Day: Rotary’s Commitment to Hygiene
In line with Rotary’s dedication to public health, the club also organized a hand washing program at the Model Primary Health Center as part of Global Hand washing Day celebrations. This program focused on educating the local community about the importance of proper hand washing techniques in preventing disease transmission. The hand washing initiative is a key part of Rotary’s broader mission to promote hygiene and reduce the incidence of preventable diseases in underserved communities.
Through these diverse and coordinated efforts, the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Central continues to play a crucial role in the fight against polio while also addressing pressing public health challenges. With a focus on education, empowerment, and community engagement, Rotary’s ongoing campaigns are making a tangible impact on the health and well-being of the people of Port Harcourt.