Oyo State Ministry Of Health responds To Incessant Measles Outbreak In Some LGs By Partnering With Save The Children International

In response to the recurring measles outbreaks in Itesiwaju Local Government Area and others attributed to low vaccination coverage, the Honourable Commissioner for Health (HCH) has taken a decisive action.

The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi reiterated that the goal is to swiftly end this concerning trend and safeguard the health of the community. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the HCH has collaborated with the Department of Disease Outbreak Management Specialist at Save the Children International (SCI), USA Office, for immediate support.

“We are pleased to announce that SCI has responded promptly and positively to our appeal after presenting empirical data on our immunization status and other related factors. Their swift and positive response has reassured us, and they have released essential funds to facilitate extensive vaccination campaigns and to enhance surveillance measures in the affected areas. This collaboration aims to curb the outbreak and prevent future occurrences by increasing immunization coverage and monitoring the health status of our communities.”

The Commissioner added that with the newly released funds by the SCI, the Ministry of Health, through the State Primary Health Care Board (SPHCB), has taken the lead in launching targeted vaccination sessions in Itesiwaju LGA. It prioritizes hard-to-reach areas to ensure all children receive the necessary immunizations. These efforts are crucial in creating a protective barrier against the spread of measles and other preventable diseases.

Funds were also released to increase surveillance activities to ensure real-time data on prevention, detection, and response to measles outbreaks. As such, the ministry’s public health directorate has been called to intensify surveillance activities. Health workers are conducting thorough investigations to identify and track measles cases, enabling prompt intervention and treatment where needed.

The Ministry of Health, in partnership with relevant stakeholders, will embark on awareness campaigns to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of vaccination. These efforts aim to dispel immunization myths and misconceptions and encourage active community participation in vaccination drives, empowering them to protect their children’s health.

Through the SPHCB, comprehensive training programs will be organized for healthcare providers in primary health centers. This training will equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver immunization services effectively and handle any challenges that may arise during the vaccination campaigns.

Statement from the Desk of the Honourable Commissioner for Health read;

“We are deeply concerned about the incessant measles outbreak in Itesiwaju LGA and others, and as such, the Government of Engr. ‘Seyi Makinde is committed to taking all necessary steps to protect our children. We are particularly grateful to Save the Children International for their swift response and generous support. This partnership will significantly boost our efforts to increase vaccination coverage and enhance disease surveillance in the region. We urge all parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the necessary vaccinations to safeguard their health and well-being.

The Oyo State Government remains dedicated to improving public health and will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to address health challenges and promote the well-being of all residents. Immunization activity is one of the core mandates of the State Primary Health Care Board, but once the coverage is low, the pendulum automatically shifts to the Ministry of Health, where the thermostat of surveillance activities will be reset in the Epidemiology Unit to prevent, detect, and respond to the likelihood of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.

I am also glad to announce that, through our recent research on vaccine hesitancy in Oyo State, we have also determined to use the findings to apply and appeal for another fund to boost immunization activities in the State. It will surely strengthen the system and reduce deaths from vaccine-preventable