Ekiti launches measles-rubella vaccination drive for children
Ekiti State Government is set to introduce the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine into its immunisation programme to protect children and close immunity gaps. Mrs Omolabake Ogundola, the State Immunisation Officer, highlighted the dangers of measles and rubella and the need for this campaign. The initiative will target children aged nine months to 14 years and will involve both routine immunisation and a statewide campaign. Health officials emphasised the importance of media collaboration and community engagement to ensure the campaign’s success.
Highlights
- Mrs Omolabake Ogundola announced that the MR vaccine will be included in routine immunisation, replacing the standalone measles vaccine.
- The campaign will target children aged nine months to 14 years, aiming to reach 17 per cent of Ekiti State’s population.
- Mobile teams and outreach programmes will be used to reach rural, factory, and security-compromised areas.
- Dr Segun Adeoye and Dr Ebube Eronini stressed the importance of immunisation in reducing child and maternal morbidity and mortality.
- Stakeholders such as traditional rulers, religious leaders, and school authorities have endorsed the vaccination exercise, according to Dr Olajumoke Oguntoye.
