Edo Mobilises Stakeholders as State Prepares for January 2026 Measles-Rubella Vaccination
The Edo State Government, through the Office of the First Lady, has partnered with key stakeholders to intensify public sensitization ahead of the official launch of the measles-rubella vaccine scheduled for January 2026. The initiative is part of a wider national effort to boost awareness and increase vaccine uptake across the state.
The sensitization programme, held in collaboration with the Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency and the World Health Organization (WHO), took place at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy in Benin City. The engagement aimed to address public concerns, dispel misconceptions, and promote community involvement to ensure a smooth and successful vaccine rollout.
Speaking at the event, the Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, emphasized the critical role of immunization in protecting children from preventable diseases. She assured residents that the measles-rubella vaccine is safe, effective, and free of charge.
Mrs. Anani commended community leaders, media professionals, and other stakeholders for their efforts in amplifying awareness on the vaccine, while also acknowledging healthcare workers for their dedication and resilience. She reiterated the collective responsibility to safeguard children’s health and work toward eliminating measles and rubella in vulnerable communities.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomole, expressed appreciation to Governor Monday Okpebholo for his continued investment in the health sector. He highlighted the transformation of primary healthcare facilities under the SHINE Agenda, noting that increased access to free vaccines is central to the state’s preventive healthcare strategy. He warned about the dangers of measles-rubella and stressed that vaccination remains the most effective protection.
Similarly, the WHO State Coordinator, Dr. Nora Eyo, explained that measles-rubella is highly contagious and can lead to serious health complications. She underscored the importance of sustained sensitization to strengthen public trust and community participation. Dr. Eyo noted that rubella infections in pregnant women can cause severe birth defects, making timely vaccination for children aged 9 months to 15 years essential.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Coulson Osoikhia, noted that measles-rubella outbreaks often result from gaps in vaccination coverage, leaving unvaccinated children at risk.
He said the sensitization campaign aims to educate parents, caregivers, and health workers on the importance of the vaccine and to encourage widespread participation. He reiterated that the vaccine—available for free at designated health facilities—remains the most reliable method of preventing the disease and its complications.
