Wife of the Rivers State governor, Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara has counselled mothers on the importance of embracing exclusive breastfeeding and also being watchful to detect signs of malnutrition of their children early.
Such vigilance, she said will help them in seeking appropriate medical attention to addressing identified issues that threaten the health of their children.
Lady Fubara gave the advise on Friday when she officially opened for use the “Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (I.M.A.M) Sites,” organised by the state Ministry of Health and located at the Kelsey Harrison Hospital, Mile 1 Diobu in Port Harourt.
Rivers first lady told mothers that it is important for them to follow through every recommended medical tips provided to them concerning their wards that have been diagnosed with malnutrition.
“Just as you have been told, exclusive breastfeeding is very important. I know that there are important antibodies in the breast milk that are vital to the child, which cannot be got from many food. Once the child gets them, it will be easy to fight against diseases. Take every other medical advice to you serious.”
At the event, Lady Fubara was bestowed the status of the “Nutrition Champion” of the State for her commitment and support towards the eradication of incidences of malnutrition in the State.
In her address, Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh said the Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (I.M.A.M) Sites are six in number that will cater for children under the ages of five who have been diagnosed with Malnutrition.
She explained that the sites will assist in fostering appropriate management and treatment of malnutrition with a variety of other long term intervention like nutrition education, infant and young child feeding and food security.
