Combating recurrent measles outbreaks in Nigeria: Short-term and long-term strategies

Abstract

Measles remains a critical public health threat in Nigeria, with high incidence rates and low vaccination coverage, particularly in the northern zones. This study identifies the drivers of measles outbreaks in Nigeria and proposes short-term and long-term strategies to combat recurrent measles outbreaks. This study was conducted using a review of existing literature and data on measles outbreaks, vaccination coverage, and healthcare infrastructure in Nigeria. Low vaccination coverage, vaccine hesitancy, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic determinants are key drivers of measles outbreaks in Nigeria. Short-term strategies include enhancing public awareness and community engagement, improving surveillance and case management, ensuring the availability of medications and medical supplies, and strengthening laboratory diagnostic capacity. Long-term strategies include strengthening routine immunization services, addressing vaccine hesitancy, improving disease surveillance and reporting systems, addressing socioeconomic determinants of health, and fostering multisectoral collaboration and coordination. Measles outbreaks in Nigeria can be combated through a combination of short-term and long-term strategies that address the root causes of the problem. Policy implications include improving measles vaccination coverage, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and building public and government trust.