LAGOS STATE HEALTH DISTRICT III SENSITIZES STAKEHOLDERS IN IBEJU-LEKKI ON MEASLES-RUBELLA VACCINE FOR CHILDREN AGED 9 TO 15 MONTHS

The Lagos State Health District III, led by Permanent Secretary Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, held a stakeholders' sensitization meeting at the Council Secretariat, Ibeju-Lekki on 8th January, 2026 to raise awareness about the importance of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine for children aged 9 months to 15 months. The event brought together community leaders, health workers, parents, and other stakeholders to discuss the upcoming statewide integration of the MR vaccine into routine immunization and the planned vaccination campaign. Dr. Monsurat Adeleke emphasized the dangers of measles and rubella, which are highly contagious viral diseases that can lead to severe complications, including blindness, brain damage, deafness, birth defects, and even death. She urged parents and guardians to ensure their eligible children receive the vaccine, noting that it is safe, effective, and will be provided free of charge at all government health facilities. The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Issa Maruf Olayinka, expressed strong support for the ongoing statewide Measles and Rubella (MR) Vaccine sensitization and immunization campaign in Lagos State. In a statement delivered on behalf of the Chairman, the Chief of Staff emphasized the critical importance of vaccinating children against measles and rubella, two highly contagious diseases that pose serious health risks, including complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain damage, and congenital rubella syndrome in newborns. "The Ibeju-Lekki Local Government is fully committed to this life-saving initiative, as we urge all parents, guardians, community leaders, and residents to bring their children aged 9 months to 14 years to designated vaccination points across our local government area. This campaign is free, safe, and essential for protecting our children's future and building a healthier community." the Chairman stated. The sensitization event highlighted the Lagos State Government's rollout of the MR vaccination campaign, scheduled to run from January 20 to January 31, 2026, with mop-up activities thereafter. Also present were the Medical Officer of Health for Ibeju-Lekki, Dr. (Mrs.) Agboola, and the Health Education Officer, Mrs. Ekerin Adebukola, and Dr. Adenike who provided detailed information on the vaccine schedule, administration, and benefits.