Measles Rubella vaccine safe for children says doctor

The Medical Women Association of Nigeria, Osun State chapter, has reassured residents that the Measles Rubella vaccine is safe for children. Dr. Sekinat Bola Oyebamiji, President of the association and a consultant gynaecologist at Osun State University Teaching Hospital, highlighted the vaccine’s proven safety record, noting its use in the United Kingdom since the 1970s. She made these remarks at a stakeholders’ meeting on the upcoming Measles Rubella Vaccination Campaign in Osogbo, urging community leaders to disseminate accurate information about the campaign in religious centres and schools across the state.

The campaign holds particular significance for the Medical Women Association, whose members are both medical professionals and mothers focused on child welfare. The Measles Rubella vaccine adds an important layer to existing immunisation programmes by protecting against Congenital Rubella Syndrome, which can cause blindness, deafness and other serious conditions. Previously, the rubella vaccine was largely accessible only to affluent families in urban areas such as Abuja and Lagos. Oyebamiji praised the Federal Ministry of Health and President Bola Tinubu for making the vaccine available nationwide.

Mrs. Tope Shadare, State Coordinator of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, attributed the success of vaccination programmes in Osun State to the commitment of stakeholders and strong government support. The campaign targets children aged nine months to 14 years, with routine immunisation covering those between nine and 15 months. Trained, licensed vaccinators will administer the injectable vaccine. Representatives from UNICEF and the World Health Organization confirmed that vaccines, materials and funding have been provided for the effort, and they urged parents to ensure their children receive the vaccine only once, as recommended.

The Osun State Parents‑Teachers Association has pledged its support, identifying rumors, political machinations and religious sentiments as challenges to vaccination efforts. The Measles Rubella Vaccination Campaign represents a significant step toward safeguarding the health of children in Osun State. With the backing of stakeholders and the government, the initiative aims to protect children from measles and rubella, thereby reducing fatality rates. As the campaign progresses, community leaders and parents must work together to raise awareness and encourage vaccination, ensuring a healthier future for the state’s children.