Following the emergence of a measles outbreak within the state, the Adamawa State Government has implemented measures to safeguard public health by temporarily shutting down both public and private schools.

This decision, intended to stem the spread of the disease, was officially communicated through a statement issued by Aisha Umar, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, based in Yola.

Providing context for the closure, Umar emphasized the significance of prioritizing the vaccination of vulnerable age groups. It is anticipated that this proactive approach will not only help contain the outbreak but also protect the broader community from further risks associated with measles.

Moreover, with the utmost priority being the health and well-being of students and staff, the Ministry of Education has designated 13 May as the tentative date for schools to resume their normal activities, subject to the evolving situation and directives from health authorities.

The announcement read, “In view of the above, all public and private schools are hereby directed to close down schools accordingly please.”

The state Ministry of Health reported that 42 individuals have died in an outbreak of measles in Mubi North, Mubi South, and Gombi.

The Commissioner for Health and Human Service, Mr. Felix Tangwami, stated that the affected communities had low vaccination compliance rates. Among the fatalities, 23 occurred in Mubi-North and 19 in Gombi local government areas.