Measles Outbreaks in Nigeria: A Concern in the Age of Insurgencies and Pandemics
In the state of Adamawa, at least 42 deaths have been reported from nearly 200 suspected cases of measles. The outbreak primarily affected two local government areas, prompting health commissioner Felix Tangwami to announce that vaccines had been distributed and field teams were working to contain the situation. Measles is a highly contagious virus that mainly affects children under the age of five and can be prevented with two doses of vaccine. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, rashes, and bumps all over the body.
The World Health Organization reports that since 2000, over 50 million measles deaths have been prevented through vaccinations. However, challenges in vaccination campaigns arise due to widespread insecurity in northern Nigerian states. Groups like Boko Haram and criminal gangs have increased security concerns in the region, forcing millions of people to flee their homes in one of the world’s ongoing humanitarian crises.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also strained healthcare systems and vaccination programs in Nigeria. According to Doctors Without Borders (MSF), disruptions caused by the pandemic have led to a rise in measles cases, with thousands of patients treated between October and December. Health workers face challenges in reaching rural communities hindering vaccination efforts and contributing to virus spread among unvaccinated children.
To suppress measles and prevent future outbreaks, MSF has emphasized the need for a 95 percent vaccination rate. With this goal in mind, it is crucial for governments and organizations working on the ground to prioritize vaccination efforts and find creative solutions for reaching hard-to-reach communities.
In conclusion, measles remains a significant public health concern globally despite efforts to eradicate it through vaccination campaigns. The challenges faced by Nigeria’s healthcare system due to insurgencies and pandemics highlight the need for continued investment in public health infrastructure and resources
