No child should suffer from diseases we can prevent — that was the clear message as Anambra rolled out its Measles–Rubella vaccination drive.
The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has urged parents and caregivers to see immunisation as a right, not a choice, stressing that vaccination is key to giving every child a healthy start in life.
She made the call while flagging off the Measles–Rubella (MR) Vaccine Introduction Campaign at Iruzu Primary Health Centre, Ukpo, marking the start of a statewide exercise targeting children aged nine months to 14 years.
Speaking through the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Oluchi Ibezim, Soludo warned that denying children vaccines exposes them to avoidable, life-threatening illnesses. She assured parents that the MR vaccine is safe, effective and reliable, and called on schools, traditional and religious leaders, and local authorities to back the campaign.
“Our goal is to vaccinate about 2.7 million children, representing 98 per cent coverage,” she said, adding that trained health workers and proper referral systems had been deployed across the state.
Health partners echoed the call. NPHCDA Zonal Director, Dr Samuel Obasi, described measles and rubella as major child health threats, while WHO Zonal Coordinator, Dr Chimuanya Igboekwu, explained that combined vaccination is crucial since both diseases share similar symptoms. WHO and partners, he said, are working to reach children in all 326 wards, including hard-to-reach areas.
State Health Commissioner Dr Afam Obidike acknowledged that mild reactions like fever or swelling may occur but fade quickly, urging parents not to let fear stand in the way of protection. The free vaccination runs until February 14 and is available in communities, schools, markets, worship centres and health facilities.
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