The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Nigeria has denied false and misleading reports circulating in media and social media that children died after receiving the measles-rubella vaccine, stating these claims are inaccurate and risk causing public panic.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Osaretin Iyen, Head of the Public Relations and Information Unit at UBTH, clarified that no child died as a result of the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine at the hospital. This response addresses allegations that the vaccine caused fatalities, including a specific claim that three children lost their lives.
Iyen explained that some children who received the MR vaccine at external immunization centers were later brought to UBTH’s Children’s Emergency Ward with febrile illnesses. However, all were promptly attended to, treated, stabilized, and discharged in good health. “The children who were brought to the hospital after taking the vaccine elsewhere were promptly attended to, treated, stabilised and subsequently discharged home in good health,” the statement read.
The hospital confirmed that an eight-year-old boy with sickle cell disease died during his admission for unrelated treatment. Iyen emphasized there is no evidence to suggest the MR vaccine contributed to his death. “There is no evidence to suggest that the Measles Rubella vaccine caused or contributed to the death in question,” he stated, noting that vaccines, like other medical interventions, may have side effects but are generally safe.
UBTH reaffirmed that the measles-rubella vaccine is safe, effective, and approved by relevant national and international health authorities, including the World Health Organization. The management urged the media and public to rely on verified information from credible health institutions to avoid spreading unsubstantiated reports that could undermine confidence in immunization programs.
The ongoing vaccination campaign targets children under 14 years. Recent allegations, such as a source claiming “Rubella measles vaccine is killing children at UBTH,” have been firmly rebutted. UBTH extended condolences to the family of the deceased boy and reiterated its commitment to patient safety, public health, and transparent communication.
As immunization efforts continue, health officials stress the importance of evidence-based discourse to maintain trust in vaccines, which are critical for preventing measles and rubella outbreaks. The hospital cautioned against narratives that generate fear and called for collaborative efforts to support public health initiatives through accurate reporting.
