Lagos State Achieves Landmark Success in Measles and Yellow Fever Vaccination Campaign
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board has announced the remarkable success of its recently concluded measles and yellow fever mass vaccination campaign. The achievements of the initiative were disclosed during a press conference held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking to journalists, the Permanent Secretary to the Governor on Primary Health Care, Dr. Abimbola Bowale, attributed the campaign's success to the dedication of healthcare workers, the support of key partners, and the active involvement of Lagos residents.
Dr. Abimbola Bowale, described the Integrated Supplementary Immunisation Activities (SIA) campaign as a groundbreaking public health intervention aimed at closing immunisation gaps and combating vaccine-preventable diseases across Lagos State.
“The campaign targeted measles, yellow fever, and human papillomavirus (HPV), prioritising high-risk populations while employing innovative strategies to maximise its impact. By focusing on both urban and remote communities, the initiative sought to achieve herd immunity, curb transmission, and reinforce the routine immunisation system,” he explained.
Key Achievements of the Campaign
The campaign recorded impressive results:
- 3,595,461 children were vaccinated against measles, achieving an 85% coverage rate.
- 20,366,405 residents received the yellow fever vaccine, representing a 95% coverage rate.
- 163,553 eligible individuals were vaccinated against HPV.
Dr. Abimbola Bowale revealed that these successes were bolstered by extensive social mobilisation efforts, which reached over 21 million people. The initiative also strengthened the state’s health system by enhancing cold chain capacity and training the healthcare workforce.
Collaboration and Innovation
Dr. Abimbola Bowale, commended the 2024 Integrated SIA Campaign as a testament to the power of partnerships and innovation in achieving public health goals. “This campaign underscores the importance of political commitment, community engagement, and data-driven strategies in tackling vaccine-preventable diseases. It is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to safeguard the health and well-being of Lagosians,” she said.
He expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support and financial backing, which played a critical role in the campaign's success.
Additionally, Dr. Abimbola Bowale, PS Health District 4 recognised the contributions of the First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, whose commitment to improving the health of Lagosians, particularly children, was pivotal. “Her involvement, both on the frontlines and behind the scenes, made a profound difference,” he noted.
Special recognition was also given to Professor Akin Abayomi, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, for his leadership and dedication to the seamless execution of the campaign.
Commitment to Public Health
Dr. Abimbola Bowale, PS Health District 4, concluded by reaffirming Lagos State’s commitment to public health and its determination to build on this success in the coming years. “This initiative is a clear demonstration of our resolve to address public health challenges and ensure a healthier future for all Lagosians,” she said.
The 2024 vaccination campaign is a milestone in Lagos State’s fight against vaccine-preventable diseases, setting a benchmark for future public health interventions.
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