The Lagos State Health District V has commenced a series of stakeholders’ engagement meetings to sensitise community leaders on the introduction of the Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccine in the state.
Eko Hot News reports that the engagement was convened by the Permanent Secretary of Health District V, Dr Oladapo Asiyanbi, and targeted traditional rulers, market leaders, NURTW officials, and other key influencers to drive awareness and acceptance of the new vaccine.
The meetings were held across Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Amuwo-Odofin, and Ojo Local Government Areas, with Badagry Division scheduled as the next location for the sensitisation exercise.
Dr. Asiyanbi described the introduction of the Measles–Rubella vaccine as a proactive intervention by the Lagos State Government to protect children from preventable diseases, reduce avoidable deaths, and curb lifelong disabilities.
He disclosed that the Measles–Rubella vaccine, already in use in Northern Nigeria since 2024, is being rolled out across the South-West, with Lagos State set to commence vaccination on January 27, 2026.
The Permanent Secretary explained that measles and rubella share similar symptoms and often co-exist, making the combined vaccine a critical public health response.
Also speaking, the Director of Medical Services and Disease Control, Dr Ahmad Amina Bello, warned that rubella infection during pregnancy can lead to Congenital Rubella Syndrome, causing deafness, blindness, and other lifelong conditions in children.
She revealed that about 10,000 Nigerian children were born with Congenital Rubella Syndrome in 2024, while 77 deaths were recorded from measles complications out of 9,821 confirmed cases.
Stakeholders were urged to champion vaccination advocacy across mosques, churches, schools, and community groups to ensure parents and caregivers embrace immunisation.
Participants were also reminded of the Child Rights Law, which guarantees every child’s right to healthcare and life-saving vaccinations.
