Bauchi State to Administer Azithromycin to Protect Under-5 Children Against Neglected Tropical Diseases

By Beatrice Gondyi Bauchi

The Bauchi State Government, in collaboration with Mission to Save the Helpless (mitosath), has officially launched the Mass Administration of Azithromycin (MDA-AZM) to children under the age of 5 years across the state.

This initiative aims to prevent Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) such as diarrhoeal diseases, respiratory diseases, Trachoma, and malaria among children.

In her official speech during the ceremony, held at the Conference Hall of the State Primary Healthcare Development Board, the First Lady of Bauchi State, Hajiya (Dr) Aisha Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, stated that this effort represents a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to reduce under-five mortality by preventing the child killer diseases.

The First Lady emphasized that this move aligns with the vision and mission of her husband, who prioritizes the health and well-being of women and children. She extended her gratitude to mitosath, NIMR, Solina, EHealth, the Gates Foundation, and other development partners for their contributions to the health and well-being of the people of Bauchi State.

The State Commissioner of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Sani Mohammed Dambam, officially stated that the Government will continue to prioritize the health of the people of Bauchi State.

He assured that the Azithromycin has been tested and proven effective and safe for administration, having been used in other locations prior to its introduction in Bauchi State.

The Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Board, Dr Rilwanu Mohammed, announced that the drug will be administered door-to-door to reach the target population of children under 5 years.

The Executive Director of Mission to Save the Helpless (mitosath), Dr Fransisca Olamiju, commended the Bauchi State Government for partnering with mitosath to contribute to the healthcare development of the state.

She confirmed that the Azithromycin to be administered is effective and safe for the children, having been used nationwide to protect under-5 children.