1st lady calls for collective action against meningitis

Her Excellency, Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, first lady of The Gambia, on Friday called for concerted efforts from all and sundry in the fight against the deadly disease, meningitis.

The first lady made this remark as she presided over the launching of the Catch-up Meningitis A vaccine and immunisation campaign, which was held at the Governor’s Residence in Brikama, West Coast Region.

The Meningitis A campaign seeks to increase the levels of national immunity among people under twenty-nine years of age, who are the most vulnerable groups of society. The nationwide campaign will last for a period of seven days.

First Lady Barrow in her statement lamented the devastating consequences of meningitis on communities, families, and individuals, while hailing the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for including Meningitis A vaccination in the list of thirteen vaccines that children benefit from.

“With such a positive step, I am confident that the government will continue to provide necessary political will and support, in ensuring that we stand firmly by our partners for further progress and development in the area of health,” she added.

The first lady urged parents and caregivers to take advantage of the campaign to ensure that all children aged from one to seven years are vaccinated against the disease. 

The minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Isatou Touray called on parents and caregivers to grab the opportunity the government has provided and get their children vaccinated.

Other speakers included the UNICEF country representative, who stressed the importance of the campaign while calling for the participation of all and sundry.

The first lady administered the first vaccination and declared the campaign launched. Source: State House