Ten children have died due to a suspected measles outbreak in Damangaza community in Lokogoma District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Head of Damangaza community, Mr James Budebo, disclosed this during an outreach programme in Abuja at the weekend.
The programme was organised by PHC Damangaza and the Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC), a grassroots organisation dedicated to health interventions in underserved communities.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection characterised by fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a distinctive rash.
It can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, especially in young children and those with weak immune systems.
Budebo said vaccination is important in preventing measles and its complications, hence the need for widespread immunisation to protect the community.
He said the recent deaths were due to the suspected measles outbreak, adding that there had been challenges to vaccine acceptance within the community.
CEO of VNDC, Mrs Chika Offor, said the one-day outreach programme was crucial to the health crisis in Damangaza.
She said it was aimed at providing immediate assistance and laying the groundwork for long-term community resilience.
Offor said efforts were on to promote vaccine accessibility and provide clear, accurate information to address community concerns and misconceptions.
She said the deaths due to measles were preventable, adding that the organisation was committed to supporting community dialogue on vaccination and public health measures.
A health worker at PHC, Damangaza,
Ms Longtang Shawen, said the outbreak exacerbated the community’s ongoing challenges with limited healthcare access.
The head of Damangaza Hausawa, Chief Bello Musa, said the Public Health Department in the FCT had been notified of the situation, with previous visits made two weeks ago.
Responding, FCT Epidemiologist, Dr Teresa Nwachukwu, said in an interview that she would investigate the current situation.
