The Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ASPHCDA) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have assured parents and caregivers of the safety and effectiveness of the measles-rubella (MR) vaccination.

The assurance was given at a media engagement on Friday, organised by the State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with ASPHCDA and partners, ahead of the introduction of the measles-rubella vaccine.

The executive secretary of ASPHCDA, Chisom Uchem, said the vaccination exercise would run from February 5 to 15, targeting children aged nine months to 14 years.

Ms Uchem said the engagement with the media, religious and community leaders, and civil society organisations was to ensure that accurate information about the vaccination reached all parts of the state.

According to her, the exercise would be carried out strictly by trained and licensed health practitioners.

She allayed fears surrounding the vaccination, stressing that the vaccines were free, safe, and effective.

“We were all vaccinated as children, and we are alive today. We cannot give our children what is harmful to them because their health is our priority,” Ms Uchem said.

Also speaking, Victor James, UNICEF social and behaviour change consultant, said the agency’s health and well-being of children remained a top priority, describing them as the future of the state.

Mr James said, “It should not be heard that any child is affected by measles or rubella when we have the knowledge and means to prevent such diseases.

“The vaccine is safe for our children with no adverse effects. We urge stakeholders to ensure that no child is missed during the exercise.”

He urged the media to also promote the demand for the vaccine in Anambra.

Also, Uju Chinenye, a paediatrician, said that non-immunisation could lead to increased disease outbreaks and higher mortality rates.

She added that other consequences include long-term disabilities, economic losses, and serious threats to herd immunity.

“Therefore, sustained vaccination of eligible children, alongside strong community and government commitment, remains the way forward,” she said.

The state health educator, Uju Onwuegbuzina, assured that health teams would visit healthcare facilities, churches, schools, and mosques to ensure comprehensive and coordinated coverage.

In her remarks, Okonkwo Obunike of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to continuous advocacy and support for Anambra in achieving a successful campaign.

(NAN)