Atwima-Manhyia(Ash), Nov.02, GNA - Mr Emmanuel Asamoah Owusu-Ansah, Ashanti Regional Minister on Wednesday visited some immunisation centres in the region on the progress of the Integrated Child Health Campaign that began nation-wide on November 01. The five-day campaign is jointly organised by the Ghana Health Service (GHS), World Health Organisation (WHO), Rotary International, Red Cross Society, UNICEF, USAID, DFID and the World Bank.
About 43,702 children in the region from zero to five years would be immunised against measles and poliomyelitis, administering of Vitamin A Supplement and distribution of free Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) to children less than two years.
Addressing mothers at Abuakwa and Atwima-Manhyia in the Atwima-Nwabiagya District, Mr Owusu-Ansah called on parents to support the Government and immunise their children.
He explained that introduction of the Capitation grant, the School Feeding Programme coupled with the exercise showed the Government's commitment to the survival and development of children. Dr Kofi Asare, Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services, announced that 413,400 bed nets would be distributed to children under two years in the region.
He said 1,620 immunisation centres had been created for the exercise and would be increased to 2,000.
Ms Beatrice Appah, Atwima-Nwabiagya District Director of Health Services, said the exercise was going on smoothly in the district. She said community mobilisation was excellent and no problem had been encountered.
The Ashanti Regional Minister was accompanied by Dr Joacquin Sewaka, WHO Country Director and WHO officials.
