Dickson, NANNM laud Mortein’s anti-malaria drive

By CHIOMA OBINNA

The insecticide-led anti-malaria awareness and sensitisation initiative spearheaded by Reckitt Benckiser, makers of Mortein brand of insecticide has received accolades for health safety and all-inclusive proactive step to stem the high prevalence of malaria in Nigeria.

Malaria remains the most worrisome cause of maternal and infant mortality in Nigeria accounting for about 11 per cent of maternal deaths, especially in first-time mothers; about 25 per cent of deaths in infants and 30 per cent of deaths in young children.

Stakeholders at the just-concluded 6th Biennial/5th Quadrennial Conference of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, NANNM, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the Bayelsa State Governor, Henry Seriaki Dickson, who unveiled the Mortein product as the sponsor brand for the conference, said the partnership between NANNM and the leading insecticide brand would go along way in the fight against malaria in the country.

Represented by a member of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Emelah Gentle added that complementary efforts of such would certainly go a long way in ensuring that “our children and mothers are free from the scourge of malaria.” National President of the NANNM, Mr. Lawal Dutsinma noted that malaria being the most common cause of maternal and infant mortality, it was imperative to involve all relevant stakeholders in the ongoing effort to stem the trend.

He described the Reckitt Benckiser’s Mortein-inspired initiative on malaria as a step in the right direction, stating that NANNM was delighted to associate with the programme that targets the most vulnerable groups.  Dutsinma also expressed optimism that the malaria challenge would become history as more Nigerians become well informed about the steps they need to take so that they are protected against malaria parasite carrier-mosquitoes.

He advocated for constant adoption of simple protection habits by Nigerians which include maintaining clean environment, keeping the surrounding free of stagnant water, sleeping under Long Lasting Insecticide Treated Nets and spraying of the rooms with insecticides recommended by the World Health Organisation, WHO. Reckitt Benckiser’s Mortein insecticide has been certified to be safe, meeting  WHO recommendation.

Brand Manager, Mortein, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Yusuf, said it was important to intensify awareness on the promotion of cleaner and healthier environment in order to win the fight against malaria in the riverine communities.