By Murtala Ahmed Mustapha:
Health experts in Bauchi State have recommended Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) for children under five years during peak malaria transmission, to reduce infections and strengthen preventive healthcare delivery across communities.
Executive Chairman, Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV, Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Malaria, BACATMA, Dr Adamu Umar Sambo, gave the recommendation during a Media Parley on SMC implementation.
The Media Parley, organised by BACATMA in collaboration with Malaria Consortium Bauchi, focused on sustaining campaigns, strengthening coordination, and enlightening stakeholders on the importance of protecting children during the rainy season.
Dr Sambo disclosed that in 2023 alone, millions of malaria cases were averted in Bauchi through monthly SMC doses administered to children under five during rainy season.
He explained that this year’s SMC campaign targets more than two million children across Bauchi State, urging parents and guardians to comply and collect preventive malaria drugs provided.
On his part, the Behaviour Change Consultant of Malaria Consortium, Yahaya Muhammad, said the Media Parley aims to strengthen collaboration with journalists, adding that the third campaign cycle begins Thursday, 21st August, across Bauchi communities.
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