A devastating measles outbreak has hit the Damangaza community in Lokogoma District, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, resulting in the heartbreaking loss of 10 children.
The outbreak has raised concerns about the importance of vaccination and the need for public health interventions to prevent such tragedies.
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According to James Budebo, head of the Damangaza community, the recent deaths were due to the suspected measles outbreak, highlighting the challenges of vaccine acceptance within the community. Chika Offor, CEO of the Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC), emphasized the need for widespread immunization to protect the community, while Longtang Shawen, a health worker at PHC Damangaza, stressed the importance of education in empowering the community about vaccine-preventable diseases.
The incident highlights the need for urgent action to address the ongoing health crisis in Damangaza and prevent further loss of life.
As Teresa Nwachukwu, FCT Epidemiologist, pledged to investigate the situation, the community and health authorities must work together to promote vaccine accessibility and address community concerns.