Traditional and religious leaders in Ekiti State have been called upon to intensify awareness in their communities and places of worship to ensure residents do not reject the ongoing vaccination campaigns against Measles and Rubella.
The appeal was made by Dr. Olajumoke Oguntoye of the Ekiti State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EKSPHCDA) during a meeting of the Social Mobilization Committee held in Ado-Ekiti. The session brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for strengthening public enlightenment on immunization and other health interventions aimed at preventing outbreaks of communicable diseases.
Dr. Oguntoye explained that the initiative is part of preparations for the 2025 Second Round of the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week (MNCHW) being organized by the Ekiti State Government in collaboration with UNICEF and other development partners. She noted that the programme will integrate routine immunization, primary healthcare services, and other interventions to enhance efficiency and improve health outcomes at the grassroots.
Also speaking, the State Nutrition Officer, Dr. Bolanle Olorunyomi, emphasized the critical importance of Vitamin A supplementation for mothers, newborns, and children. She noted that Vitamin A improves eyesight, strengthens immunity, and protects children from various infections.
Schedule of Implementation:
1st – 5th December, 2025
8:00 am – 2:00 pm daily
Target Groups:
Children aged 9–59 months (Vitamin A supplement)
Children 0–2 years (Routine immunization antigens)
9-year-old girls (HPV vaccination)
Pregnant women and others (ANC, micronutrient supplementation)
Health experts describe measles as a highly contagious and potentially deadly viral disease that spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person. Rubella, also known as German measles, is another contagious viral infection that presents with milder symptoms but poses significant risks, especially for pregnant women.
Participants at the meeting were drawn from across the 16 local government areas of the state. They included representatives from the media, National Orientation Agency, education sector, market associations, artisans, labour unions, ethnic groups, drivers’ unions, and both public and private schools.