Rivers launches measles vaccination campaign

Rivers State Government has announced the commencement of a mass measles vaccination campaign, targeting children aged nine months to under five years.

The campaign, scheduled to run from October 12 to 18, with a mop-up exercise on October 19-20, aimed to protect the state’s youngest residents from the highly contagious disease.

According to the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, the campaign is a response to a worrying decline in vaccination coverage rates, observed not only in Rivers State but also nationally and globally.

Oreh explained that the state’s vaccination coverage rates have declined drastically, from 67% last year to 46% in 2024.

She said Measles, a potentially deadly disease, necessitates high vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks and ensure children’s growth and development.

She added that to maximize reach and convenience, vaccination posts will be set up in schools and religious institutions.

Oreh explained: “Our recent coverage rate indicates a concerning downward trend, which underscores the urgency of our upcoming campaign.

“We know that vaccination is central to delivering primary healthcare services in the state.

“The measles vaccine is crucial for protecting children from severe complications.”

She emphasized that even if earlier childhood vaccinations had been administered, the measles vaccine is essential at nine months to ensure adequate protection.

“Some families may assume their children are sufficiently covered after earlier vaccinations, but this is not the case.

“We understand that these are trying economic times, and many families are busy. However, the lives of our children are precious, and we must nurture them to ensure they grow adequately and develop.”

Oreh emphasized the importance of cooperation from parents, guardians, and community leaders, urging them to bring their children to vaccination posts and encourage others to do the same.

“Your cooperation is vital to the success of this campaign, and together we can safeguard our children’s health and wellbeing,” she said.