The Ogun State government has called on stakeholders to collaborate for a successful Integrated Measles Campaign, scheduled for September 21-25, 2024.
Permanent Secretary Waheed Adesina made the appeal in Abeokuta at the State Social Mobilisation and Technical Committee (S-SOMTEC) meeting, organized by the Ministry of Information and Strategy in partnership with UNICEF.
Adesina emphasized the importance of safeguarding children’s health through vaccine-preventable diseases, stating that the well-being of mothers and the survival of their children are crucial for securing the future of society.
UNICEF Social and Behavioural Change Consultant Dr. Pita Obam presented the campaign’s target population as children aged 9 months to 5 years, assuring that the vaccine is safe and effective in preventing measles. He explained that measles is a highly contagious viral respiratory illness that can cause brain damage, blindness, and death.
Dr. Obam highlighted the effectiveness of the vaccine, citing CDC reports that one dose is approximately 93% effective, while two doses are about 97% effective. He emphasized the importance of extensive coverage during the campaign.
“The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one dose of the vaccine is approximately 93 percent effective at preventing measles, while two doses are about 97percent effective.
“This is why we are striving for extensive coverage during the integrated campaign’’, he said
Earlier, Director of Information Kemi Ewedairo-Yusuf acknowledged the S-SOMTEC platform’s instrumental role in advancing the improved health status of mothers and children, thanks to the collaborative efforts of UNICEF and the Ministry.
