Goulmou: The Regional Director of Health and Public Hygiene of Goulmou, Dr. Mahamady Yerbanga, has urged residents to ignore circulating rumors about the measles and rubella vaccine. He encouraged parents to vaccinate their children aged 6 months to 10 years as part of the ongoing national campaign.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Dr. Mahamady Yerbanga addressed concerns about the safety of the measles and rubella vaccine, refuting claims that the vaccine was linked to child fatalities. He confirmed that investigations had shown no connection between the vaccine and the reported deaths.
Dr. Yerbanga highlighted the serious risks posed by measles, a highly infectious viral disease, which can result in severe complications such as pneumonia, brain damage, and death. He also pointed out the dangers rubella poses to pregnant women, including birth defects, miscarriages, or fetal death.
To combat these diseases, Dr. Yerbanga emphasized the importance of maintaining hygiene, avoiding contact with infected individuals, seeking prompt medical attention if symptoms appear, and most importantly, vaccinating eligible children. He assured that the measles and rubella vaccine is a safe and effective tool that has saved millions of children worldwide.
Dr. Yerbanga reaffirmed the Burkinabe government's commitment to child health, insisting that no harmful vaccine would be provided to the public. He called on parents, guardians, and community leaders to avoid spreading misinformation and to ensure children are vaccinated between August 3 and 9, 2026, at no cost.
"By protecting our children, we protect our families, our community, and the future of Burkina Faso," Dr. Yerbanga stated, urging widespread support for the vaccination campaign.