A devastating measles outbreak has struck a Kaduna community, leaving families grieving and sparking urgent vaccination efforts to prevent further loss.
Sadness and concern grip Ungwan Kanawa, a small community in Tankarau, Dutsen-Abba Ward, Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State, following a confirmed outbreak of measles that has tragically claimed the lives of two children, leaving at least 20 others battling the illness.
This heart-wrenching situation was discovered during a health outreach visit commemorating African Vaccination and World Immunisation Week, which runs from April 24 to 30, 2025, under the theme, “Vaccination for All is Humanly Possible.”
Dr. Gerida Birukila, Chief of Field Office at UNICEF Kaduna, confirmed the outbreak while highlighting the urgent need for accelerated immunisation campaigns in vulnerable communities.
Adding his voice, Hamza Ikara, Director of Disease Control at the Kaduna State Primary Healthcare Board, explained that many of the affected children had either missed their measles vaccinations or had never been immunised at all, largely due to persistent vaccine hesitancy.
“Despite numerous outreach efforts, many parents still refuse or neglect to immunise their children,” Ikara lamented. “This non-compliance has sadly left many young ones vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles.”
He revealed that cultural and societal barriers often prevent mothers from bringing their children for vaccinations without the approval of male heads of households. As part of the intervention, local health officials have conducted sensitisation campaigns targeted at both men and women in the community.
To tackle the outbreak head-on, Ikara announced that the Local Government Surveillance Officer has been directed to intensify monitoring and ensure that every symptomatic child in Ungwan Kanawa and nearby areas is identified and treated.
Emergency supplies of vaccines have been dispatched, and vaccination teams, along with community outreach workers, are set to revisit the community by 4 p.m. today (Saturday) to launch a massive vaccination exercise aimed at halting the spread.
“We are determined to stop this outbreak swiftly — not just in Ungwan Kanawa, but across the entire Zaria Local Government Area,” Ikara assured.
This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the life-saving power of vaccines and the critical role of community cooperation in safeguarding children’s health.
Don’t wait for tragedy — ensure your children are fully vaccinated today. Stay connected to NIGPOST for critical health updates and community news across Nigeria.
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