April 07, (THEWILL) – No fewer than eight children have been confirmed dead following a fresh outbreak of measles in Makurdi metropolis and surrounding communities in Benue State.
The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Yanmar Ortese, who disclosed this on Monday in Makurdi, said the spike in cases is linked to prevailing weather conditions. He urged parents and guardians to take proactive steps by ensuring their children are vaccinated at designated health facilities across the state.
Dr. Ortese noted that the outbreak has primarily affected children, particularly those between the ages of two and ten years. He appealed to residents to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health centres at the onset of symptoms.
“Our preliminary assessment indicates that weather fluctuations have contributed to the outbreak. We advise parents to take full advantage of the vaccination and treatment services available at all primary healthcare centres,” the commissioner stated.
According to findings, the most affected locations include Day Spring, opposite First Bank, areas off Agro Millers at North Bank, as well as Agan, Antsa, and the International Cattle Market, all within the North Bank axis of the state capital.
Common symptoms observed among affected children include skin rashes, discolouration of the eyes, and significant loss of appetite. Health officials have been deployed to monitor the situation and provide necessary interventions.
A concerned resident of North Bank, who preferred anonymity, told The WILL that he was compelled to withdraw his children from school as a precautionary measure.
While he confirmed no fatalities in his household, he called on government authorities to intensify efforts in curbing the spread of the disease.
“Although we have not recorded any deaths in our compound, the situation is worrying. Government must act fast to contain this outbreak before it spreads to more communities,” he said.
Health authorities say surveillance and vaccination campaigns have been intensified across the affected areas to stem further transmission and avert a broader health crisis.
