The Zamfara State Government has announced plans to commence the administration of measles and rubella vaccines across the state by October 2025.
The wife of the Zamfara State Governor, Huriyya Lawal, made this known while flagging off a sensitisation campaign for the vaccination drive on Saturday in Gusau.
Mrs. Lawal explained that the new vaccination program is aimed at preventing measles and rubella among children aged nine months to 15 years. She stated that in the first phase, the vaccines will be administered to children aged nine to 15 years, while subsequent phases will target children aged nine months to five years.
She expressed appreciation to development partners for their continued support in addressing health challenges affecting children and the state at large.
Speaking at the event, a Pediatric Consultant at the Federal Medical Centre, Gusau, Dr. Ibrahim Hano, described measles and rubella as deadly diseases among children. He warned that if not properly immunised, children could suffer complications such as blindness, glaucoma, brain disorders, and heart diseases.
Dr. Hano emphasised the need for robust public sensitisation, training of health personnel, parent education during clinical visits, and improved child nutrition to ensure the success of the vaccination campaign.
Also speaking, the Emir of Anka and Chairman of the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad, commended the state government and its development partners for their strong commitment to healthcare delivery. He pledged the full support of traditional institutions in raising awareness and encouraging parents to immunise their children against the life-threatening diseases.
