By Uzairu Dauda Bunga:
The Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Rilwanu Muhammad, has described social media as a vital and rapidly growing tool for societal development and strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Dr. Muhammad made the statement during a two-day capacity-building workshop for social media handlers organized by the Board in collaboration with Upswell, the workshop, themed on strengthening digital health communication for improved Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine awareness and uptake, was held at the Secretariat of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria in Bauchi.
He explained that women are mostly affected by cancers such as cervical cancer, breast cancer, and cancer of the womb, stressing the importance of preventive healthcare measures, especially vaccination.
According to him, the current shortage of HPV vaccines is the reason the vaccine is presently being administered only to girls between the ages of 9 and 14.
The Executive Chairman urged participants to give their best in creating effective public awareness campaigns across the state, especially among targeted stakeholders, to improve vaccine acceptance.
Dr. Muhammad also charged social media handlers to work diligently in combating misinformation and misconceptions surrounding vaccines in order to secure a healthier future generation.
He further called on the government to regulate activities on social media platforms due to the spread of misleading information driven by personal interests and sensationalism.
He advised participants to always verify and confirm information before sharing it publicly.
Expressing concern over maternal healthcare challenges, Dr. Muhammad revealed that while about 80 percent of pregnant women attend antenatal care services, only 40 percent eventually deliver in health facilities.
He attributed the situation to insecurity and negative attitudes among some stakeholders.
He emphasized that the HPV vaccine remains one of the best protections against cervical cancer, particularly for unmarried girls, noting that cervical cancer is very expensive to treat.
Dr. Muhammad also disclosed that the Bauchi State Government is currently distributing Vitamin A supplements to children under the age of five as part of efforts to improve child health in the state.
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