NCDC Reports 627 New Cases Of Measles Across 30 States
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 627 suspected cases of measles across 30 states and 213 Local Government Areas (LGAs) as of January 31, 2025. This represents a significant decline compared to the 2,157 cases recorded in January 2024, according to Dr Jide Idris, Director-General of the NCDC, who made the announcement in Abuja.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines measles as a highly infectious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain active in the air and on surfaces for extended periods, increasing its transmission potential.
Common symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. As the disease progresses, a rash appears and spreads across the body. In severe cases, complications such as pneumonia, blindness, and brain inflammation (encephalitis) may occur. Measles can also be fatal, particularly among unvaccinated children and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The NCDC’s epidemiological report for Week 7 (February 10–16, 2025) indicates that 112 of the suspected cases, or 17.86%, have been confirmed through laboratory testing. Encouragingly, no deaths have been reported, marking a notable improvement from the same period in 2024, when 23 measles-related deaths occurred, with a case fatality rate of 0.96%.
The highest number of suspected cases was recorded in the following states:
- Katsina (102 cases)
- Jigawa (84 cases)
- Akwa Ibom (56 cases)
- Kebbi (52 cases)
- Enugu (32 cases)
These five states account for more than half of the total suspected cases nationwide. Further analysis revealed that 81.3% of confirmed cases involved individuals who had not received any measles vaccination, highlighting a significant gap in immunisation coverage. Additionally, nearly half (46.4%) of confirmed cases were among children aged between nine and 59 months.
As of January 31, 2025, 38 LGAs across 18 states were experiencing active measles outbreaks, with Katsina state leading with seven affected LGAs. Other states with multiple outbreak-affected LGAs include Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, and Sokoto, each reporting three affected LGAs.
Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing measles outbreaks. The measles-containing vaccine, typically administered as part of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine, is given in two doses—at nine months and 15 months—following the guidelines of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).
See Also: Assisted Suicide: UK May Explore Private Sector Onwards
Dr Idris emphasised the importance of strengthening routine immunisation, particularly in high-risk regions, to curb the spread of the disease. He also highlighted the need for early detection, rapid response to suspected cases, and increased public health awareness campaigns to encourage vaccination uptake.
The NCDC is actively working to enhance surveillance and outbreak response to prevent further spread. The agency is advocating for increased community engagement, improved vaccine accessibility, and stronger collaboration between health authorities and local communities to eliminate measles in Nigeria.
Dr Idris urged Nigerians to stay informed through official health updates and participate in vaccination campaigns to safeguard public health. With concerted efforts in immunisation and disease monitoring, Nigeria can significantly reduce measles cases and protect vulnerable populations from severe health complications.
Content Credit| Oyedepo Oluwafifedoyinsola
Picture Credit | https://businesstrumpet.com/
