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From Uchenna Inya, Abakaliki
Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ebonyi State Chapter, has called on mothers, caregivers and guardians across the state to make their children and wards available for the upcoming Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccination exercise.
The association made the call ahead of the second phase of the Measles–Rubella vaccination campaign, scheduled to hold from February 4 to 13, 2026, across the state.
In a statement signed by the State Chairperson, Nkechinyere Oginyi, NAWOJ emphasized that immunization remains one of the most effective and affordable ways to protect children from preventable diseases and reduce child mortality.
She described measles as a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that spreads rapidly through coughing, sneezing, and close personal contact with an infected person which affects unvaccinated children.
Oginyi said Rubella, also known as German measles, though often mild in children, poses serious health risks to pregnant women, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and congenital defects in unborn babies.
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She noted that the Measles–Rubella vaccine is safe, effective, and critical to safeguarding the health of children and the wider community, stressing that widespread vaccination helps prevent outbreaks and supports long-term public health security.
The NAWOJ Chairperson commended the Ebonyi State Government for its continued investment in preventive healthcare and child-focused health programmes, describing the MR vaccination campaign as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to protecting the lives of children and strengthening the state’s healthcare system.
According to the statement, NAWOJ pledged its full support in mobilizing communities, raising awareness, and countering misinformation about vaccines to ensure the success of the campaign.
The association urged parents and caregivers to cooperate with health officials and take advantage of the free vaccination exercise, noting that a healthy child is the foundation of a healthy society.
It reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for policies and programmes that promote maternal and child health, peace, and sustainable development in Ebonyi State.
