Measles Kills 64 In Katsina

26.01.2006

An outbreak of measles in Katsina State has killed scores of children while several others are receiving treatment at various health centres in the state.

The outbreak, noticed about three weeks ago is already affecting 17 of the 34 local government areas.

The Director of Health of Katsina Local Government, Alhaji Muntari Lema, attributed the development to the refusal of some parents to get their children immunised.

Dr. Ahmed Qabasiyyu, Chairman of the state’s Primary Health Care Development Agency (PHCDA) confirmed the measles outbreak.

He said, however, that 736 cases with 64 deaths had been recorded across the state. Qabasiyyu said a state response committee had already been set up and was working round the clock to address the situation.

He said, “Immunisation of the uninfected population and massive public awareness campaign have commenced.

“The state’s response committee is also embarking on advocacy visits to all 34 local government areas to ensure speedy control of the disease.”

He appealed to parents to ensure the immunisation of their children against measles and other child-killer diseases.