RSG Threatens Health Workers Over Rota Virus Vaccine Sale

The Rivers State Government has threatened disciplinary actions against any health officer involved in the sale of Rota virus vaccine in any health centre in the State.
The Executive Secretary of the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, Dr Kinikanwo Green, issued the threat at Obio Cottage Hospital and Model Primary Health Centre, Rumuogba, and Rumuokwurusi respectively during a fact finding visit to the health institutions.
The fact finding visit was in connection with rumour of alleged sales of the vaccines to both pregnant women and nursing mothers at the Obio Cottage Hospital and other health Centres in the State during immunisation.
He said the state government is determined to fish out those involved in the illegal deal with a view to disciplining them.
Green, who described the situation as unacceptable, further said it is capable of putting the health of thousands of children in jeopardy.
“We are going to deal with people that are involved in this. It’s unacceptable because we cannot joke with the health of our children.
“We are going to investigate this.This matter cannot be swept under the carpet”, he said.
He said the team was on a fact finding mission to assertain the actual facts about the rumour.
Green also said a committee will be constituted to find out those involved and recommend appropriate punishment.
Earlier, addressing both pregnant women and nursing mothers at both the Obio Cottage Hospital and Model Primary Health Centre, Rumuogba, and Rumuokwurusi, respectively, Green called on them to report any one asking them to pay for vaccines during immunisation.
According to him, “immunisation is free. Report anyone asking you to pay”.
Also speaking, the medical officer in charge of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Dr Stanley Amadi, said the situation was embarrassing to Obio/Akpor Local Government Council.
He also urged the women to report any one who asked them to pay money for vaccines.

By: John Bibor