W.H.O. to Launch Measles-Rubella Vaccine in Anambra This September

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the introduction of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine in Anambra State this September.  

WHO Anambra Coordinator, Bonos Mohammed, disclosed this at the *Mothers’ Wellness Summit* in Awka, organized by the *Women Initiative for Greater Anambra* in collaboration with the *Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative*.  

The MR vaccine, a combination shot protecting against measles and rubella, is aimed at reducing the incidence of these diseases to one case per million by 2030. Nigeria records an estimated 10,000 cases of Congenital Rubella Syndrome annually, making up one-third of the global burden.  

“Children aged nine months to 14 years should be vaccinated as the MR vaccine is safe and has been in use globally for over 50 years,” Mohammed stated. He also urged women to educate others to prevent vaccine hesitancy.  

Dr. Nonye Soludo, wife of the Anambra State Governor, expressed concern over low immunization rates in the state, urging mothers to prioritize their children’s health. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, assured that the state would intensify awareness efforts, emphasizing that immunization is free in government health facilities.  

Mothers are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative to protect their children from life-threatening diseases.