***2.2 Million Children to Receive New Vaccine
Ondo State is set to commence the administration of the newly introduced Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccine) from January 20 to 29, 2026, targeting 2.2 million children across its 18 local government areas.
The announcement was made during a media orientation held on Thursday at Grand Capital Hotel, Alagbaka, Akure, aimed at deepening community awareness and ensuring accurate media reporting ahead of the campaign.
Speaking during the engagement, the Director of Disease Control and Immunisation, Dr. Victor Adefesoye, who represented the Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Francis Akanbiemu, said the introduction of the MR vaccine marks a significant step in strengthening disease prevention in the state.
He described the vaccine as potent, effective and safe, noting that although rubella has existed worldwide for centuries, it was not commonly associated with Nigeria until recent years. “Now that rubella is here with us, protecting our children has become even more urgent,” he said.
The new vaccine will replace the existing standalone measles vaccine.
The campaign will target children aged nine months to 14 years, and will be carried out through fixed and mobile posts, including primary healthcare centres, schools, markets, churches and mosques.
Dr Akanbiemu urged parents and caregivers to ignore myths and misinformation surrounding vaccines, emphasising that immunisation is free of charge and is the fundamental right of every child.
He also reminded participants that the law provides up to six months imprisonment for parents who deliberately refuse routine vaccination for their children.
In her presentation, the State Immunisation Officer, Florence Fadiji, provided an overview of measles and rubella, warning that rubella poses severe risks—especially to pregnant women—as it can lead to lifelong complications in babies.
She stressed the need for mothers to begin routine immunisation immediately after birth and to ensure their children participate in the January campaign.
Representing the World Health Organisation (WHO), Modupe Oluwasoore called for strong partnership with the media to help spread accurate information, counter misinformation and ensure massive turnout during the exercise. She said the cooperation of journalists remains critical to the success of the vaccination rollout.
Supported by WHO and UNICEF, the MR vaccination campaign is expected to significantly boost immunity levels among children in Ondo State as the government intensifies efforts to eliminate measles and rubella.
