Report all vaccine reactions, doctor advises parents
A Nigerian pediatrician emphasizes the importance of parents reporting vaccine reactions in children to improve immunization programs.
Dr. Folusho Balogun, a Consultant Paediatrician at the Institute of Child Health, University College Hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria, has urged parents to diligently report any adverse vaccine reactions their children may experience to the immunization clinic. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, she highlighted that timely reporting can significantly enhance vaccination programs and ensure that responses are appropriately managed. Balogun serves as the Oyo State Team Lead for the International Paediatrics Association, emphasizing her commitment to child health and the global effort in vaccination initiatives.
Dr. Balogun advised that healthcare clinics should actively encourage clients to report any Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFI) through proper documentation. She stated that this information is crucial not only for individual child health but also for overarching public health strategies. By collecting and processing these data accurately, health authorities can assess vaccine safety more effectively and tailor their immunization policies to enhance overall efficacy and safety.
Moreover, Balogun called for the visibility of the AEFI investigation committee to ensure a transparent process wherein vaccine reactions are taken seriously and managed appropriately. The implications of her statements highlight the necessity for collaboration between parents, healthcare providers, and policy-makers in fostering an informed and safe vaccination environment, which ultimately benefits public health across Nigeria and beyond.