As the mobilisation of households and administration of Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention SMC (SPAQ) for eligible children concluded for the month of July reports from Billiri,Balanga, Kaltungo and Shongom Local, Government Areas (LGAs) highlighted significant progress in reaching the target population.
In interviews with PERISCOPE NIGERIA, Social Mobilisation Officers (SMOs) from the local government areas reported a high level of parent compliance, with minimal resistance or hesitancy.
According to them this positive reception was further supported by the distribution of net cards ahead of the free distribution of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) in August.
The integration of the SPAQ administration and ITN distribution campaigns was cited as a key factor in the successful uptake of the SPAQ treatment by households.
According to the SMOs Ali Ahmed Tangal, SMO of Billiri LGA, Edward Bako of Shongom LGA,Tanko Bala of Kaltungo LGA and Idris Nuhu of Balanga LGA confirmed that all SPAQ medicines have been administered, resulting to almost 100 per cent coverage rate across their respective LGAs.
“The collaborative efforts of the state government, local authorities, and health officials have been instrumental in achieving these results, marking a significant step forward in malaria prevention efforts in Gombe State,” they added.
They expressed their gratitude to the local government councils for their substantial support in facilitating the exercise.
Some Residents who spoke to PERISCOPE NIGERIA, including Gambo Yakubu and Jibrin Garba Lakuto from Billiri, as well as Suzannah Hosea, from Shongom, confirmed receiving their net cards and are eagerly anticipating the collection of the free ITNs, adding “The distribution of these cards has been well-received, with many residents appreciating the comprehensive approach to malaria prevention and control.”
The successful integration of SPAQ and ITN campaigns is expected to enhance the overall effectiveness of malaria control strategies in Gombe State
Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) is an effective strategy used to reduce malaria cases in regions with high transmission rates.
How SPAQ works:
According to the Malaria Elimination Programme, the primary goal of SPAQ is to prevent malaria in children under five years old during the peak transmission season when the risk of malaria is highest. By providing preventive treatment.SPAQ aims to reduce the incidence of malaria and its associated
SPAQ involves administering a specific combination of antimalarial drugs at scheduled intervals. The typical regimen includes a fixed-dose combination of Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine (SP) and Amodiaquine (AQ). These drugs work together to clear any parasites present and provide protection against new infections.
The treatment is given during the malaria transmission season, often referred to as the “seasonal malaria peak,” which varies depending on the region. The drugs are administered at regular intervals, usually once a month, for a defined period, such as three to four months.
SPAQ is effective in reducing malaria cases and severe outcomes in young children. By preventing malaria infections during the high-risk season, SPAQ helps to lower the incidence of malaria and reduce the overall burden of the disease.
