Calabar: The Cross River Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA) has announced an impressive 99 percent coverage in its ongoing Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign. Dr. Vivien Mesembe-Otu, Director-General of CRSPHCDA, revealed the achievement in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, by the ninth day of the campaign, 1,866,070 children had been vaccinated out of the target of 2,015,493, leaving 149,423 children yet to be reached. The campaign achieved a 99 percent daily settlement reach, covering 8,696 out of 8,791 planned settlements across the state’s 18 local government areas (LGAs). This success is attributed to deliberate collaboration among health workers, community leaders, and parents.
The campaign is part of Nigeria’s national effort to eliminate measles-rubella in line with global health targets. It targets children aged nine months to 14 years, with high turnout recorded at various healthcare and community outreach points. Community leaders and educational institutions played significant roles in promoting awareness and acceptance.
Health workers emphasized the importance of trust-building and local engagement. Mrs. Mary Edet, a community health worker, noted that mobilization efforts relied on trusted local channels. In schools, such as Anointed Children International School in Calabar, there was broad acceptance of the vaccination, supported by clear communication from health authorities.
Development partners, including UNICEF, have commended the campaign’s success. Dr. Hilary Ozoh observed high community participation and demand, noting minimal non-compliance issues. The campaign’s success is further supported by government commitment to sustaining partnerships and improving healthcare delivery.
Cross River is among the Phase 2b states implementing the new measles-rubella vaccine, targeting children to prevent Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) and strengthen herd immunity. Mrs. Goodness Hadley from Johns Hopkins International Vaccine Access Centre has urged parents to ensure eligible children receive vaccination before the campaign concludes.