Stakeholders in the Bauchi State health sector have called for increased public awareness, immunisation and community participation to accelerate efforts to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus in the state.
The call was made during a Maternal, Neonatal and Tetanus Elimination (MNTE) media engagement held at the MHWUN Secretariat in Bauchi.
The engagement brought together health officials, media practitioners, traditional rulers and religious leaders to discuss ways of strengthening efforts to prevent the disease.
Speaking at the event, Mohammed Ribado Jibrin, State Health Education Officer, Bauchi State Primary Health Care Board, said the meeting was organised to provide stakeholders with accurate information on MNTE and strengthen public health education across communities.
He urged journalists and broadcasters to use their platforms to disseminate credible health information, particularly to women of reproductive age and families, while encouraging communities to make use of available healthcare services.
Also speaking, Nasiru Shuabu, State Immunisation Officer, Bauchi State Primary Health Care Board, said symptoms of tetanus include severe muscle stiffness and difficulty opening the mouth.
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He urged anyone experiencing such symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
Shuabu identified immunisation, hygienic childbirth practices and proper umbilical-cord care as key measures for preventing maternal and neonatal tetanus.
He also urged traditional and religious leaders to support awareness campaigns across the selected local government areas.
The engagement was attended by local government representatives, including Garba Musa, Chairman of Kirfi Local Government, and Hon. Saleh Hodi Jibir, Chairman of Shira Local Government.
The selected local government areas are Ningi, Kirfi, Itas-Gadau, Shira, Giade, Darazo and Tafawa Balewa.
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