By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Oyo State Primary Health Care Board has announced that it will commence an Integrated Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccination Campaign across the state from October 4 to 14, 2025, with a mop-up exercise scheduled for October 15 and 16.
The announcement was made during a media engagement session held on Monday in Ibadan. The meeting which was convened to seek the support of the media in creating widespread awareness for the campaign, targets millions of children across the state.
Speaking at the session, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muyideen Olatunji, disclosed that Oyo is the only state in the Southwest selected for the first phase of the MR vaccination campaign due to its high record of measles outbreaks.
He explained that while measles vaccination is already familiar to caregivers, rubella vaccination remains relatively unknown despite being a major public health issue.
He said, “Measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, especially among young children.
“Rubella, on the other hand, is often mild in children and adults but poses a serious risk during pregnancy, as infection in early pregnancy can cause Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), leading to severe birth defects.
“The campaign will focus on children aged 9 months to 14 years, particularly those who may have missed routine vaccinations.”
According to officials, more than 3 million children are expected to be reached through a mix of strategies, including house-to-house visits, fixed posts, and mobile vaccination teams.
Dr. Olatunji also called for media collaboration, saying, “We thank the media for the support given during the HPV vaccination campaign earlier this year. We need the same level of partnership now because public awareness is key. Caregivers must know that this vaccine is safe, free, and capable of saving lives.”
He also added that the integrated campaigns will deliver multiple vaccines and services simultaneously, thereby improving efficiency and access for caregivers.
“This campaign is not just about measles and rubella; it is about strengthening our entire immunisation system. We are setting a model that other states can follow,” Olatunji added.
Also speaking during his presentation, the State Immunization Officer, Mr. Adedamola Adediran, said the campaign aims to achieve at least 85 percent coverage in order to build strong herd immunity.
“We are adopting an integrated approach. Alongside the measles-rubella vaccines, we will also deliver other health interventions campaigns such as polio and malaria prevention.
“We are working with accurate data to ensure no child is left behind. This campaign is free, safe, and part of the routine immunisation programme.”
Adediran further noted that between 2019 and 2024, Nigeria recorded 94,305 confirmed measles cases and 719 deaths, with the North-East region carrying the highest burden.
“This shows the urgency of vaccination. We cannot afford to let preventable diseases continue to claim the lives of our children,” he said.
