Nigeria has launched a major measles vaccination campaign targeting 24 million children aged 9 to 59 months across 24 states, in response to a surge in measles outbreaks. The campaign, which began in October, is a catch-up initiative after measles outbreaks in the first half of 2023 led to 297 cases and at least 70 deaths. Nigeria’s measles vaccination rates remain below global targets, with only 60% coverage for the first dose and 38% for the second dose.
The country is working with international health organizations like Gavi, WHO, and UNICEF to address the vaccine gaps. The campaign aims to bolster immunity and reduce measles transmission, especially in hard-hit regions like Borno, Yobe, and Katsina.
In addition to the national effort, local vaccination campaigns in states like Ondo have achieved high coverage, vaccinating over 900,000 children. The initiative is part of a broader global effort to combat measles outbreaks, particularly in Africa, where over half of the countries have been severely impacted by the virus.
