The Lagos State Government has announced plans to roll out a comprehensive Measles-Rubella and Routine Immunisation Campaign as part of its continued commitment to public health and child welfare. The exercise is scheduled to begin on Tuesday and will run for one week, ending on February 5, 2026, across all Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state.

The statewide campaign will be officially flagged off by the wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu. Health authorities say the initiative is aligned with both national and global immunisation targets and is aimed at protecting children and adolescents from diseases that can be prevented through timely vaccination.

Speaking on the importance of the exercise, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr Ibrahim Mustafa, described routine immunisation as one of the most effective tools in modern public health. He explained that vaccines play a crucial role in preventing serious illnesses such as measles, rubella, polio, tuberculosis, whooping cough, diphtheria, cervical cancer, and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

According to Mustafa, the integrated nature of the campaign is designed to widen coverage and ensure that no eligible child is left out. He stressed that the Lagos State Government is intentional about reaching children and adolescents in every community, regardless of their location or socioeconomic background. He also reassured residents that all vaccines to be administered during the campaign are safe, effective, and will be provided at no cost.

Health officials further highlighted the long-term benefits of sustained immunisation efforts. Beyond preventing disease outbreaks, routine vaccination contributes to lower child illness and death rates, improved school attendance, and better overall quality of life. These outcomes, they noted, also have positive ripple effects on economic productivity and social development.

Parents, guardians, community leaders, religious institutions, and school authorities have been urged to actively support the campaign. The state government is calling on all stakeholders to encourage participation and ensure that eligible children and adolescents receive the required vaccines within the campaign period.

The immunisation drive will be carried out with the support of key local and international partners, including the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, the World Health Organisation, UNICEF, and other immunisation stakeholders.

With this initiative, Lagos State continues to position itself as a leader in preventive healthcare, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the health of its youngest and most vulnerable residents.

Credit: The Guardian

Source: Punch News