Pfizer is partnering with The University College Hospital, Ibadan. In other to enhance the quality of care provided to the patients and ensure the best global practice, the University College Hospital has decided to formulate a policy on adult immunization with a focus on the vaccination of adults.
Olayinka Subair, Cluster Lead for West Africa/Country Manager Nigeria, Pfizer, commented that “Pfizer has a long history in vaccine research and development. Through the development of innovative delivery systems and technologies, Pfizer have created scalable solutions that address prevention of deadly bacterial infections.The key to maintaining and building on these advances is constant vigilance and continued access to immunizations is essential to preserving the progress that Pfizer have made against vaccine-preventable conditions and strengthening our ability to address emerging health threats.”
He said that “Globally, vaccines have provided a more positive impact on public health than any other medical intervention. Over the years, paediatric age group has been targeted by majority of the vaccines developed. Protection from some childhood vaccines can wear off over time. Consequently, adults may be at risk for vaccine-preventable diseases. Furthermore, some vaccines have been recommended for adults, these can be divided into those for the general population and those indicated for individuals with specific risk factors such as pre-existing chronic diseases or multimorbidities, compromised immune system, travel, or potential occupational risks such as exposure of healthcare workers. Most of the high-income countries have developed policy to enhance universal vaccination of adults. Despite the universal immunization coverage in high income countries, Nigerian adults are yet to be reached.”
Prof. Jesse Otegbayo, Chief Medical Director of University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, commented that “University College Hospital as the flagship tertiary health care institution in the West Africa sub-region, offering world-class training, research and services is happy collaborating with Pfizer in spearheading an adult vaccination policy for the Institution. In other to enhance the quality of care provided to the patients/clients and ensure best global practice, the University College Hospital has decided to formulate this policy on adult immunization.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centre for Disease Control have developed an approach for the administration of the vaccine referred to as H-A-L-O approach. This is an easy-to-use chart that can help the health care providers make an initial decision about vaccinating a client/patient based on four factors – the client/patient’s Health condition-H, Age-A, Lifestyle-L, and Occupation-O. Although, in some situations, vaccination can be done without considering these factors.”
Pfizer is reputed for applying science and global resources to bring therapies that extend and significantly improve the lives of people as they strive to set the standard for quality, safety, and value in the discovery, development, and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines. They strive to advance wellness, prevention, treatments, and cures that challenge the most feared diseases as one of the world’s premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies collaborates with health care providers, governments, and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. In its more than 150 years, Pfizer has worked to make a difference for all who rely on them.
Dr Abiodun Moshood, Chairman Medical Advisory Committee, University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan .
Olufemi Ogungbemi- Pfizer’s Access Account Manager. Mrs. S.O. Oki -Deputy Director of Administration & Head, General Administration Dept, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan)
