Tension as Measles outbreak kills two, infects 20 others in Zaria

A measles outbreak has killed at least two and infected over 20 others in Ungwan Kanawa, Zaria, Kaduna State.

Kaduna health officials confirmed the incident on Monday, April 28, 2025, describing it as a serious public health concern.

The outbreak has been attributed to prolonged vaccine hesitancy among residents, particularly among parents in affected communities.

According to experts, this hesitancy left many children unprotected against common vaccine-preventable diseases like measles.

Kaduna State Government has launched an emergency response in partnership with UNICEF and the World Health Organization.

The agencies are coordinating disease surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and emergency vaccination drives across Zaria and nearby communities.

Dr. Gerida Birukila, UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office in Kaduna, expressed concern over limited vaccine availability.

She warned that shortages could worsen the outbreak and delay containment efforts in already vulnerable areas.

“We must ensure predictable vaccine availability to halt the spread and protect our children,” Birukila said.

She stressed that consistent supply chains are critical in managing and preventing future outbreaks.

Officials from the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board have also activated rapid response teams to trace contacts.

These teams are visiting affected households, identifying unvaccinated children, and administering measles vaccines urgently.

Health workers have urged parents to present their children for immunization without delay.

Kaduna authorities also aim to boost routine immunization to prevent future outbreaks and reduce childhood mortality.

According to sources, panic has spread in Ungwan Kanawa following the deaths and new infections.

Residents have begun cooperating with health officials, though some still express fear and uncertainty about the vaccines.

Community leader Malam Yakubu Umar said public education is essential to reverse misinformation and build trust.

He called on religious and traditional leaders to support the immunization campaign and reassure their followers.

The state health ministry warned that more cases could emerge if vaccine coverage remains low in rural areas.

They are urging neighboring communities to take proactive steps and report symptoms immediately.

Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, rash, and red eyes, which may worsen without prompt treatment.

Health experts say timely vaccination remains the most effective defense against the highly contagious disease.

Kaduna State Government has pledged to continue working with partners until the outbreak is fully contained.

Officials are monitoring the situation closely and plan to expand the emergency response if needed.

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