Emphasising the need for accurate information in the fight against misinformation, Dr. Akin Fagbemi, Chairman of the Oyo State Hospital Management Board, has made a powerful plea for education on the science behind vaccines during a webinar organized by the Khayr Cancer Health Initiative.
Speaking at the third installment of KCHI’s webinar series, which tackled the theme of “Science Behind Vaccine: Separating Myth & Misconception from Reality,” Dr. Fagbemi passionately advocated for an informed understanding of the crucial role vaccines play in safeguarding public health.
According to him: “The wave of misinformation on vaccines has put many at risk, he said, urging the audience to embrace the advancement of modern medicine and combat the false narratives that undermine its efficacy.”
Acknowledging the tremendous strides made in eradicating deadly and infectious diseases through vaccination efforts, Dr. Fagbemi highlighted the importance of immunization schedules in sustaining a healthy and thriving society.
He commended KCHI for their relentless efforts in creating awareness on safe and effective use of vaccines, calling upon all stakeholders to lend their support.
“A healthy nation is a wealthy nation,” he asserted, emphasizing the critical need for collective action.”
“Through education, we can dispel the myths and misconceptions surrounding vaccines, ensuring that our nation continues to benefit from the advancements of modern medicine.”
During the webinar, Dr. Fagbemi went on to highlight the Oyo State Hospital Management Board’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance healthcare services in the state.
He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering dedication to providing affordable, accessible healthcare for all, while emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships in this endeavour.
The participants of the webinar, he stated, have a duty to put their newfound knowledge into practice, actively contributing to the creation of a healthier nation.
The webinar’s impact was not limited to Dr. Fagbemi’s speech alone. Participants were also treated to a highly informative presentation by Dr. Murtala Jubril of the Africa CDC, who delved into the intricacies of vaccine science and the importance of separating fact from fiction.
His insights were met with enthusiasm and keen engagement from the audience, a testament to the widespread interest in the critical issue.