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A recent investigation into Nigeria’s 2025 measles outbreak found that most infections are among children who have never received a measles vaccine. This finding raises urgent questions about gaps in the country’s immunisation system.
Data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) shows that between Jan. and Nov. 19,213 measles cases were confirmed across the country.
Of these, 14,801 cases, or more than 77 percent, were in children who had never received a vaccine. These numbers show that, despite years of vaccination campaigns, many children are still unprotected.
Over 80% Cases Reported in Northern Nigeria
The disease does not affect all regions equally. More than 80 percent of confirmed cases were reported in northern Nigeria, especially in Borno, Zamfara, Yobe, Bauchi, and Kebbi.
Health officials say this is due to weak routine immunisation, insecurity that makes outreach difficult, and cultural resistance in some areas.
Profile and Fatalities
Children between 9 and 59 months old made up almost half of all confirmed cases, showing how vulnerable infants and toddlers are.
Out of 26,866 suspected cases during this time, there were 153 deaths, which is a case fatality rate of 0.8 percent. Although this rate is lower than in past outbreaks, these deaths could have been prevented.
How States Contained Outbreak
By November, 187 local government areas in 27 states had brought their outbreaks under control. Only Eti-Osa in Lagos State still had an active outbreak at the end of the month, and no new clusters appeared elsewhere. Across the country, just 71 suspected cases were reported in Nov. with one confirmed infection and no deaths.
Surveillance Weaknesses
Even with progress in stopping outbreaks, the NCDC pointed out serious problems with surveillance. Blood sample collection rates are still low, which makes it hard to confirm cases and track how the disease spreads.
Public health experts warn that without better monitoring, outbreaks could go unnoticed, especially in underserved communities.
Preventable, but Immunisation is Inconsistent
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, and close contact.
It causes fever, cough, and rash, and can lead to serious problems like pneumonia, blindness, or death. Vaccination can prevent measles, but immunisation coverage in Nigeria is still inconsistent.
Line of Action
The NCDC is urging parents and caregivers to ensure children receive all recommended vaccines, warning that measles remains one of the most contagious diseases.
Health advocates say that unless routine immunisation improves, Nigeria could face more preventable outbreaks in the future.
