Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency, has emphasized the critical importance of routine immunisation in protecting children from diseases after maternal immunity wears off. Speaking at a zonal meeting organized by UNICEF and the National Orientation Agency in preparation for the 2024 Integrated Measles Campaign, Ani-Osheku warned that maternal immunity, while strong at birth, diminishes after a few months.
“Maternal immunity, transferred during pregnancy, offers powerful protection in the early weeks of life, but once it fades, routine immunisation becomes essential to shield children from diseases like measles and polio,” she stated.
Ani-Osheku also voiced concerns over vaccine hesitancy, calling for stronger media collaboration to counter misconceptions and raise awareness about the life-saving benefits of vaccines. “Vaccination is not a conspiracy to harm or sterilize people; it is a proven tool for saving lives,” she added.
In addition, Dr. Ndubuisi Ebitea, WHO’s State Technical Officer for Measles, reiterated the safety and efficacy of vaccines, urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated. The 2024 Integrated Measles Campaign will be rolled out in states including Anambra, Benue, Enugu, Cross River, and Kogi.
