Thursday, April 25, 2024

Social media causing Plateau people to refuse COVID-19 vaccine: Govt

“Even the elites are not going for the vaccine that is free and readily available.”

• January 19, 2022
COVID-19 jab
Photo of a man taking COVID-19 vaccine jab used to illustrate the story

The government of Plateau has blamed COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the state on reports peddled on social media platforms.

The Commissioner for Health, Nimkong Lar, who spoke in an interview on Wednesday in Jos, said social media reports regarding the vaccine created a trust deficit, lowering vaccination coverage.

“Vaccine hesitancy is one of the biggest challenges we have on the Plateau,” Mr Lar said. “Initially, we were doing well. However, before the yuletide, there was a decline in the number of persons coming for the vaccine. Even the elites are not going for the vaccine that is free and readily available.”

Nonetheless, Mr Lar stressed that the situation would be tackled through re-sensitisation of residents. This, he said, the health ministry would commence soon.

He added that the sensitisation would focus on the benefits of vaccination and doing away with the hoax regarding the vaccine.

The commissioner disclosed that the state had commenced administering the Pfizer booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in December 2021.

(NAN)

We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.

More from Peoples Gazette

Katsina State

Politics

Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku

“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

Gender Strategy Advancement Initiative and the SheForum Africa

Politics

Saraki, Olujimi, others make case for female politicians to fill leadership positions

“We want to influence who emerge as candidates of political parties.’’

Orphanages

NationWide

Orphanage owners advocate clinics for unwanted pregnancies

“Instead of a section of society stigmatising these young girls, we need to educate and assist them.’’

Flag of North Macedonia

World

North Macedonia nationalist wins first round of presidential poll

The president in North Macedonia primarily has protocol powers.

Sightsavers

Health

Nigeria, 15 other countries get $36.5 million to eliminate trachoma

Ms Shu’aibu said the funding was under the organisation’s “Accelerate Programme” to end the disease by 2027.

Agriculture

AfDB, BUK partner on climate adaption, entrepreneurship to boost food security

Ms Dunford stated that agriculture needed to be transformed to provide food security.

Chinese

Health

Chinese expert recommends Tai Chi treatment for health challenges

“Tai Chi is crucial for older people as it offers numerous benefits.’’