Koosin: Health professionals and officials convened on Thursday to discuss strategies for improving health services in Koosin Province. The meeting, chaired by High Commissioner Noufo Dembele, addressed key issues such as the Expanded Immunization Program (EPI) indicators, the renewal of management councils (COGES), and the current epidemiological situation.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the meeting proceeded despite ongoing security concerns in the region. It brought together a mix of health professionals and non-professionals from the province’s municipalities, all focused on enhancing healthcare services for the local population.
PEV manager Ibrahim Ouedraogo reported that the EPI indicators show above-average vaccination coverage across the province’s ten municipalities, alongside effective child loss management. However, challenges persist, including the closure of 19 health facilities and interruptions in vaccination services in certain villages.
The district’s epidemiological situation necessitates weekly case monitoring, investigations, and sample transportation. Diegou Ouali, head of the health information and epidemiological surveillance service, highlighted that the district, with a population of 411,531, relies on 56 health facilities, of which 19 are currently closed. The average distance to these facilities is 6.38 km.
Efforts to renew more than half of the health facility management committees have been successful, with directives issued for faster implementation of policies. The High Commissioner commended the resilience of local health volunteers, who continue to support the community.
In tandem with the council meeting, a plea was made to religious and customary authorities to introduce an anti-malaria vaccine, underscoring the ongoing efforts to combat prevalent health challenges in the region.