In a significant step towards achieving herd immunity against COVID-19, the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, in collaboration with UNICEF, has taken proactive measures to empower Health Promotion Officers with the necessary knowledge and skills for demand generation in routine immunisation services.
This initiative, undertaken on October 9, 2023, aims to bolster the region’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts and ensure that a large proportion of the population is protected.
Dr. Emmanuel Tenkorang, the Ashanti Regional Health Director, emphasised the importance of this training program. He highlighted that integrating COVID-19 vaccines into routine immunisation services, which already reach a broad spectrum of the population, is a strategic move.
This expansion covers infants, children, adolescents, and adults, contributing significantly to the pursuit of herd immunity.
Dr. Tenkorang also noted that COVID-19 vaccines remain readily available at all health centers in the region.
He urged individuals who have received their first dose and those eligible for booster shots to seize this opportunity and complete their vaccination journey.
While encouraging vaccination, Dr. Tenkorang reminded the public to remain vigilant and adhere to hygiene protocols.
Despite progress in the vaccination drive, the COVID-19 virus still poses a threat, and maintaining safety measures is crucial to curbing its spread.
The training of Health Promotion Officers reflects the region’s commitment to battling the pandemic effectively.
With a well-equipped team dedicated to generating demand for COVID-19 vaccines, the Ashanti Region is taking concrete steps towards achieving herd immunity and safeguarding the health of its residents.
As the region anticipates National Immunization Days, where mobile teams will be deployed to reach a broader population, these efforts are poised to make a substantial impact on the fight against COVID-19.
The Ashanti Region is resolute in its mission to protect its citizens and contribute to the collective global effort to overcome the pandemic.