The Bauchi State Government has raised concerns over the rising cases of measles in the state, calling for urgent action to curb its spread.
Speaking during a one-day sensitization programme on the importance of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine, the Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, expressed deep concern over the situation.
Mohammed revealed that Bauchi State recorded over 218 cases of measles between January and March 2025, highlighting the need for swift intervention.
He explained that the programme aimed to educate the wives of local government chairmen in preparation for a large-scale vaccination campaign set 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.
The vaccination drive, he noted, would be conducted under the guidance of the Forum of Nigerian Governors’ Spouses, making it easier for healthcare workers to administer 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.”
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 emphasized the importance of women’s involvement in disease prevention as a key reason for their inclusion in 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.
Warning about the risks of measles and rubella infections, especially for young children and pregnant women, she added that the diseases could lead to severe complications, including blindness and mental health issues.
With the upcoming vaccination campaign, the Bauchi State Government hopes to curb the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations across the state.
