In Enugu State, families, health workers, and young volunteers are collaborating to protect children from measles, rubella, HPV, and other vaccine-preventable diseases through the 2025–2026 Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccination Campaign. The campaign aims to reach over 2.1 million children across all 17 local government areas and is led by the Government of Nigeria through the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, with technical support from WHO and funding from Gavi. Nigeria continues to experience measles and rubella outbreaks, particularly among children who miss routine immunizations, making campaigns like this essential for reducing zero-dose children and strengthening routine vaccination systems.
To ensure no child is missed, Enugu trained over 60 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members as independent monitors. These young volunteers visit vaccination posts, schools, markets, health facilities, and remote settlements to identify gaps, report findings daily, and help teams adjust their outreach in real time. Their work has already helped reach children in settlements that would otherwise have been missed, building trust with communities and reinforcing confidence in the health system.
During the campaign, children aged 9 months to 14 years receive the MR vaccine, while girls aged nine years receive the HPV vaccine. Independent monitoring not only improves coverage and data quality but also strengthens accountability and supports preparation for integrating the MR vaccine into routine immunization schedules. WHO provides technical guidance, planning support, and coordination, while Gavi funding ensures vaccine procurement and operational needs are met.
The campaign demonstrates a shared commitment from the Government of Nigeria, Enugu State, WHO, NPHCDA, partners, and young volunteers to protect every child, reduce outbreaks, and strengthen primary health care. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to bring their children to the nearest vaccination post, ensuring that every child receives protection from preventable diseases.
