TheCable

The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has launched the zero-dose learning hub (ZDLH), an innovation to reach children who are yet to receive routine immunisations.

The ZDLH is being implemented by the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET), working as a consortium with the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN ), with support from Gavi.

Speaking at the launch of the initiative on Monday in Abuja, Faisal Shuaib, NPHCDA executive director, said the government had established the national emergency routine immunisation coordination centre (NERICC) to address the low immunisation coverage.

“Since the inception of NERICC, immunization coverage has substantially improved throughout the country, with the 2021 national immunisation coverage (NICS) report indicating a notable increase, with Pentavalent vaccine 3 coverage standing at an encouraging 57 percent,” NAN quoted Shuaib as saying.

He said the COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions in routine immunisation efforts.

He added that the ZDLH would provide a framework for Nigeria to promptly generate evidence strategies that can be leveraged to measure, monitor and reach zero-dose children and missed communities in which they live.

“It’s a beacon of possibility, a testament to our dedication to reaching every child, and an affirmation of our unwavering belief in the power of vaccination,” he said.

“It represents a promise that no child will be left behind, no matter their circumstances or where they are born.

“The government aims to enhance the capabilities of individuals engaged in the administration of immunisation services at both national and subnational levels through the learning hub.

“Our aim is to empower them to play an active role in diminishing the number of zero-dose children in Nigeria.

“The launch of the zero dose learning hub is a milestone moment in the global fight against preventable diseases.”