The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has officially launched the statewide Measles–Rubella vaccination campaign, urging stakeholders across the state to work together to ensure that every eligible child is reached and vaccinated.
The flag-off ceremony was held at Urhokpota Hall in Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State.
Mrs. Anani charged parents, guardians, community leaders, and health workers to work collectively to ensure that children between the ages of nine months and 14 years receive the required doses of the vaccine for their protection and healthy development.
She noted that protecting the lives and future of children is non-negotiable. She urged parents and caregivers to disregard rumours, myths, and misinformation surrounding vaccines, noting that such misconceptions often prevent children from accessing life-saving immunisation.
She explained that vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent childhood illnesses and deaths, emphasizing that a healthy child population is critical to the future growth and prosperity of the state.
Mrs. Anani stated that Governor Monday Okpebholo has strengthened the state’s cold chain infrastructure to ensure proper storage and preservation of vaccines, guaranteeing their safety and effectiveness across all communities.
Earlier, the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, reassured residents that the vaccines are safe and have been scientifically proven to protect children.
He warned that measles and rubella are highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, including blindness, deafness, brain damage, and other lifelong disabilities that could mar a child’s future.
The World Health Organization (WHO), State Coordinator, Nora Eyo commended the state government for prioritizing child health and pledged continued support toward achieving total immunization coverage.
The vaccination exercise is scheduled to commence on January 27 and will run till February 5. Health workers and vaccinators will visit schools, markets, places of worship, and other public locations to ensure that no child is left behind.
