Abia State First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, announced on Friday that the Abia State Government is tackling polio challenges with increased funding, community engagement, and strengthened healthcare services statewide. Speaking at the “Umuahia Polio Walk 2024,” organized by Rotary Clubs in recognition of World Polio Day, Otti emphasized the importance of raising awareness and improving vaccination efforts to prevent the spread of polio.
“Today’s event aims to educate people about polio eradication efforts, symptoms, risks, prevention methods, and to advocate for continued government and donor support,” Otti said. “By increasing vaccination rates and encouraging community involvement, we can enhance public health and bring an end to polio.”
Otti detailed the symptoms of polio, including fever, vomiting, headache, sore throat, and pain or stiffness in the neck, back, or limbs, noting its infectious nature. She explained that polio is transmitted through contact with contaminated food, water, surfaces, and infected individuals.
“Sadly, contracting this virus can lead to severe complications such as permanent disability, paralysis, respiratory failure, and long-term muscle weakness,” Otti continued. “These complications impact psychological well-being, leading to issues such as unhappiness, depression, frustration, and social withdrawal.”
Although there is no antiviral treatment for polio, she highlighted the role of vaccinations in preventing the disease. “Let it be known that no antiviral treatment exists for polio, but vaccination prevents the infection,” Otti emphasized. She urged the public to adopt healthy practices to reduce the risk of polio.
The First Lady identified the main challenges facing polio eradication in Abia, including funding, vaccine accessibility in remote areas, social stigma, and inadequate sanitation. However, she assured the public that the state government is actively addressing these challenges through enhanced funding, community engagement, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure.
Addressing patients, she advised, “Seek help, ask questions, and connect with others who understand. You are empowered today to take control of your health and well-being.”
Commending the efforts of Rotary members, she said, “Your work in economic and community development, health campaigns, peacebuilding, and other humanitarian efforts aligns with our government’s vision and has been impactful.” She encouraged collective action against polio, urging, “Let us unite to eradicate polio; join the movement for a polio-free world. We are stronger together.”
In their responses, Rotary Club representatives, including past District 9142 President Grace Okaro and Mrs. Love Ezema, President of the Rotary Club Umuahia Government House, thanked Mrs. Otti for her support. They affirmed Rotary’s commitment to combating polio in Abia and beyond, pledging continued efforts to eliminate the disease from affected communities.
