By Kingsley Agim
Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, has confirmed an outbreak of measles at Navy Primary School and Penniel Primary School, both in Calabar.
Confirming the outbreak in a release signed by himself, the Commissioner also reported other yet-to-be-confirmed cases in Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
“The State Rapid Response Team has been activated and immediately deployed to the affected areas, as reactive vaccination for children is ongoing in the affected LGAs,” Dr Ayuk informed.
Commissioner Ayuk also revealed that the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency is intensifying routine immunisation to build up immunity in LGAs where there are no reported cases.
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“Measles is a highly contagious infection, especially among unimmunised children. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to respond positively to routine immunisation campaigns for their children.
“Symptoms especially rashes and coughing in children should be reported early to the nearest health facility. Don’t engage in self-medication,” the Commissioner warned.