Olusegun Ariyo
The Bauchi State Government has raised concerns over the increasing prevalence of measles in the state.
The Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, expressed concern over the development during a one-day sensitization programme on the importance of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine.
Mohammed disclosed that Bauchi State recorded over 218 cases of measles between January and March 2025.
He explained that the programme was organised to educate the wives of local government chairmen in preparation for the upcoming vaccination exercise scheduled for October.
“Measles and Rubella are two deadly diseases that must be tackled with full commitment. This is why the Federal Ministry of Health has introduced new vaccines to address them,” Mohammed stated.
He further revealed that the vaccination campaign would be conducted under the auspices of the Forum of Nigerian Governors’ Spouses, adding that the initiative would facilitate the work of healthcare personnel administering the vaccines.
“We are already familiar with the measles vaccine in the country. What makes this initiative different is the addition of the Rubella vaccine,” he clarified.
“This is a collective fight, which is why governors’ spouses are taking the lead in driving awareness ahead of the vaccination exercise.”
Speaking at the event, Bauchi State First Lady, Aisha Mohammed, who convened the sensitization programme, assured that women would play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the new Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign.
She explained that women’s involvement in disease prevention was a key reason they were targeted for the awareness drive.
“The introduction of the Measles-Rubella vaccine marks a significant milestone in our efforts to protect children from these life-threatening diseases,” she said.
She further warned that the consequences of these infections, particularly for young children and pregnant women, could lead to severe complications such as blindness and mental health issues.
