Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for hours, making transmission easy. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, followed by a rash that spreads across the body.
Severe complications can include pneumonia, blindness, brain inflammation (encephalitis), and, in some cases, death—particularly among unvaccinated children and those with weakened immune systems.
Current Measles Situation in Nigeria
As of January 31, 2025, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported 627 suspected measles cases across 30 states and 213 Local Government Areas (LGAs). This marks a significant drop from the 2,157 cases recorded in January 2024.
Notably, 81.3% of confirmed cases involved individuals who had not received any dose of the measles vaccine, highlighting a major gap in immunisation coverage.
States with the highest number of suspected cases include Katsina (102), Jigawa (84), Akwa Ibom (56), Kebbi (52), and Enugu (32), collectively accounting for over half of the national total. Children aged nine to 59 months represented nearly half of the confirmed cases, underscoring the vulnerability of young children to measles.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Unvaccinated individuals, particularly children under five years old, are at the highest risk of contracting measles and experiencing severe complications. Other vulnerable groups include pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems due to malnutrition or other health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that over 95% of measles deaths occur in countries with low per capita incomes and weak health infrastructures.
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The standard measles vaccination schedule in Nigeria involves two doses: the first at nine months and the second at 15 months, as per the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) guidelines . These two doses are 97% effective at preventing measles infections for life.
Currently, health experts, including those from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), do not recommend a third dose of the measles vaccine during outbreaks. Outbreaks are primarily driven by unvaccinated populations, not by waning immunity among the vaccinated.
Where to Get Vaccinated in Nigeria
Vaccination services are available at various healthcare facilities across Nigeria. The Lagos State government, for instance, vaccinated over 3.5 million children against measles in 2024, demonstrating the availability and accessibility of immunization services in the state.
For those in other regions, the NPHCDA and NCDC coordinate routine immunization programs and supplemental immunization activities. These programs are often conducted in collaboration with international partners like UNICEF and Gavi, aiming to increase vaccination coverage and curb the spread of measles.
Take Action
If you or your child have missed any scheduled measles vaccinations, it’s crucial to visit the nearest healthcare facility to receive the necessary doses. Ensuring complete vaccination not only protects individuals but also contributes to community immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
