UNICEF Warns: Rubella Measles a Major Cause of Birth Defects in Newborns — Nationwide Vaccination Campaign Begins October 2025
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UNICEF Warns: Rubella Measles a Major Cause of Birth Defects in Newborns — Nationwide Vaccination Campaign Begins October 2025 |
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has issued a strong warning about the dangers of Rubella Measles, describing it as a leading cause of severe birth defects in newborns. According to UNICEF, failure to detect and treat the disease early can result in permanent hearing loss, congenital heart defects, blindness, cataracts, and other lifelong disabilities.
This crucial warning comes ahead of Nigeria’s first nationwide introduction of the Rubella-Measles vaccine, scheduled to roll out in October 2025. The vaccination will target children between nine months and 14 years in a massive health campaign.
Why Rubella Measles Is a Public Health Concern
Rubella, sometimes called “German measles,” is often mild in children and adults, but it can have devastating consequences for pregnant women and their babies. If contracted during pregnancy, it can lead to Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) — a condition responsible for thousands of cases of birth defects worldwide.
According to UNICEF Niger State Lead, Grace Odeyemi, Rubella Measles has existed globally for many years, but Nigeria is introducing the vaccine for the first time to close immunity gaps and protect future generations.
“Rubella Measles is very deadly. It can cause defects in newborns, either at birth or later in life. While mothers have long been aware of measles vaccination for babies aged zero to 14 months, this new campaign will target children aged nine months to 14 years,” Odeyemi explained.
The October 2025 Vaccination Campaign
The Rubella-Measles vaccination campaign is a collaborative effort between UNICEF and the Niger State Government, with the Ministry of Primary Health Care spearheading the program.
Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, represented by State Immunisation Officer Abubakar Kpantu, emphasized that the goal is to reach every eligible child in the state.
The campaign aims to:
- Close immunity gaps in children and adolescents.
- Interrupt the transmission of Polio, Measles, and Rubella.
- Strengthen Nigeria’s Routine Immunisation program.
Nigeria’s Global Health Statistics on Rubella and Measles
Nigeria currently contributes 37% of the global burden of Measles and Rubella, making the country one of the most affected worldwide. For Polio, Nigeria ranks second in Africa after the Democratic Republic of Congo, accounting for 54% of the continent’s cases.
Rubella remains under-documented in Nigeria due to limited surveillance, but global data from 2024 shows that over 100,000 babies are born each year with Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS).
Why Pregnant Women Must Take Extra Precautions
One of the most dangerous aspects of Rubella is that infection during pregnancy can cause irreversible damage to the unborn child. Common complications include:
- Deafness
- Blindness
- Heart defects
- Developmental delays
Pregnant women are strongly urged to ensure they are vaccinated before pregnancy to protect both themselves and their babies.
Role of the Media in Public Awareness
UNICEF is working closely with media practitioners, health educators, and community health workers to ensure widespread sensitization. The organization is calling on journalists and influencers to share verified information about the vaccination drive, particularly in rural areas where awareness is often low.
How Parents Can Prepare for the Campaign
Parents and guardians can take the following steps to prepare for the October rollout:
- Verify your child’s age — Ensure they fall within the nine months to 14 years target group.
- Locate vaccination centers — Contact your nearest Primary Health Care Centre or visit UNICEF Nigeria’s vaccination page for updated information.
- Spread awareness — Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to participate.
Final Thoughts
The October 2025 Rubella-Measles vaccination campaign represents a historic milestone in Nigeria’s public health journey. By participating, parents can protect their children and help eradicate a disease that has silently caused countless birth defects for decades.
For more information about Rubella Measles, CRS prevention, and the vaccination schedule, visit the official Nigerian Ministry of Health website or UNICEF Nigeria.
