Measeles control in Nigeria: the case for a two-dose vaccine policy

Abstract

Despite all efforts expended on routine immunization,since the era of Expanded called Program of Immunization (EPI), later called National Program of Immunization \r(NPI), measles remains a disturbing cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria and other developing countries.\rMeasles vaccine coverage of 59 percent in infancy in 1988 and 35 percent in 2003 remains low in Nigeria.The WHO and UNICEF have highlighted the need to improve vaccine coverage and effectiveness to at least, 95 percent for protective herd immunity and effective measles control. This can be facilitated through a 2 dose measles vaccine policy as is being practiced by most Western and some African countries who are pursuing measles control and elimination programs.