The Imo State Government has begun a statewide Measles–Rubella vaccination campaign across all 27 local government areas of the state, as part of efforts to protect children from preventable diseases.

The campaign was officially flagged off on Tuesday in Owerri by the Wife of the Governor, Chioma Uzodimma, who said the initiative is targeted at safeguarding children against measles and congenital rubella syndrome.

Uzodimma praised the Federal Government for its ongoing efforts to eliminate measles and rubella nationwide and for introducing the combined Measles–Rubella vaccine in Imo State. She noted that the campaign aligns with Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration’s commitment to preventive healthcare and reducing child illness and death in the state.

According to her, the vaccination exercise is expected to reach thousands of children and is part of a wider national and global campaign aimed at eliminating measles and reducing complications associated with rubella.

She also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community heads, and civic groups to help sensitise residents and encourage parents to present their children for immunisation.

“Please let us immunise all children from nine months to 14 years of age. That way, we know they are protected from measles–rubella disease,” Uzodimma urged.