…urges parents to comply
The campaign, which forms part of efforts to strengthen public health delivery at the grassroots, is aimed at raising awareness on the dangers of measles and rubellat-wo highly contagious diseases that pose serious risks to children if not properly prevented through vaccination.
Speaking during an awareness drive at selected wards and primary healthcare centres in Somolu, Hon. Shakirat Ashimi emphasised that prevention remains the most effective tool in combating the diseases. She described immunisation as safe, free, and essential for the healthy growth and development of children, particularly those under the age of five.
According to the wife of the council boss, the local government is working in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Health, primary healthcare workers, and relevant stakeholders to ensure that no child is left behind in the immunisation exercise.
“Measles and rubella are preventable diseases, yet they still claim lives due to negligence and misinformation. As a government closest to the people, we are committed to protecting our children. I urge all parents and caregivers to cooperate with health officials and ensure their children receive the vaccines,” Mrs Ashimi said.
She further assured residents that the vaccines being administered are approved, safe, and handled by trained medical personnel. She also directed community leaders, traditional rulers, religious institutions, and youth groups to support the campaign by encouraging residents to participate actively.
Health officials present at the event explained that measles can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, brain damage, and death, while rubella poses serious risks to pregnant women, including miscarriage and congenital defects in unborn babies. They noted that widespread immunisation is key to eliminating the diseases.
Parents who attended the sensitisation programme commended the local government for bringing the campaign closer to the grassroots, describing it as timely and necessary. Some pledged to mobilise other parents within their communities to ensure maximum turnout.
The Measles-Rubella prevention campaign is expected to continue across all wards in Somolu Local Government, with mobile health teams deployed to markets, schools, religious centres, and residential areas.
Hon. Mrs Ashimi reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising healthcare delivery and preventive medicine, stressing that a healthy population remains the foundation for sustainable community development.
