The state government of Abia State has taken preventative action after receiving reports of three possible measles cases in the Arochukwu and Umunneochi Local Government Areas. At a press briefing, Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo, the Commissioner of Health, revealed this information and attributed the outbreak to the state’s dry weather.

Aims are being made to stop the disease from spreading further, and the government is vaccinating susceptible children. In addition to highlighting the value of immunisations, Dr. Okoronkwo disclosed that thousands of youngsters have previously received vaccinations as part of a preventive programme that ended in December 2023. The outbreak may have originated from people who chose not to receive the vaccination.

Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mr Okey Kanu, urged parents to ensure their children receive the measles vaccination. He called on residents to stay vigilant and adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent infection, assuring that the government is working diligently to control the situation within Arochukwu and Umunneochi LGAs.

Additionally, Mr. Kanu gave updates on the status of the continuing hospital renovations, noting that Okpuala Ngwa General Hospital and Umunneato General Hospital were almost finished. Furthermore, he declared that a medical outreach would take place in April 2024, with the goal of reaching 5000 citizens and providing 200 people in isolated rural areas with free procedures in exchange for full health care.

The public is reassured by the government that renovations to healthcare facilities would improve the quality of healthcare provided overall and that the outbreak will be contained within the two impacted LGAs. The intended medical outreach demonstrates the dedication to meeting the community’s basic medical requirements and addressing health issues in neglected areas.