By Bashir Hassan Abubakar
A dire situation unfolds in Zurmi, Zamfara State, where a measles outbreak has claimed 24 young lives this year. In response, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has launched an emergency vaccination campaign in collaboration with the Zamfara State Ministry of Health and Zurmi Local Government Area.
Over 1,600 suspected measles cases have been reported across all 11 wards in Zurmi, with most cases concentrated in areas with limited access to healthcare. The outbreak has hit children under five years old the hardest, particularly those who haven’t received vaccinations.
The six-day vaccination campaign targets children aged 6 months to 5 years, aiming to vaccinate at least 95% of this age group. MSF teams will also conduct malnutrition screenings and refer undernourished children to nearby health centers for treatment.
To maximize impact, MSF is deploying mobile teams to remote areas and establishing fixed vaccination sites. This approach aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access and prevent further deaths.
MSF then urges partners and health authorities to support this urgent response and ensure every child in Zurmi receives the care and protection they need. With high levels of malnutrition exacerbating the outbreak, a comprehensive response is crucial to saving lives.