The Adamawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency is set to begin a measles-rubella vaccination campaign across all 21 Local Government Areas in October.

This was announced by Suleiman Bashir, the executive chairman of the agency, during a media engagement in Yola on Wednesday.

Mr Bashir said the 10-day campaign aimed to boost the immunity of children aged between nine months and 14 years.

He explained that the vaccine was free, safe, and effective, urging journalists to support the campaign by helping dispel misconceptions, misinformation, and rumours about vaccination.

Additionally, the agency’s director of disease control, Jacob Vasumu, stated that the engagement aimed to raise awareness about the importance of the measles-rubella vaccine.

He added that it also aimed to outline strategies to achieve at least 95 per cent coverage and address vaccine-related misinformation.

“The media plays a vital role in influencing public behaviour and improving vaccine acceptance,” he added.

Umar Bahuli, the immunisation officer, explained that measles is a highly contagious viral disease that could lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, particularly in children and immunocompromised individuals.

He also noted that rubella, though typically mild, posed a serious risk during pregnancy as it could lead to Congenital Rubella Syndrome, resulting in severe birth defects.

Mr Bahuli said a two-day mop-up exercise would follow the 10-day campaign to ensure all targeted children were reached.

(NAN)