The Adamawa State government has taken swift action in response to the outbreak of measles by closing down both public and private schools in the state.

The closure notice was issued through a statement signed by Aisha Umar, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, based in Yola, on Monday.

Umar emphasized that the decision to close schools was aimed at curbing the spread of the disease and allowing the State Primary Health Care Development Agency (PHCDA) to administer vaccinations to the vulnerable age group.

The statement declared Monday, May 13, 2024, as the new date for the resumption of schools.

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

The outbreak of measles has had devastating consequences, with at least 42 children confirmed dead in the state.

Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Mr. Felix Tangwami, provided further details on the situation, revealing that the majority of the cases were recorded in vaccine non-compliant communities within the state.

Tangwami disclosed that 23 people lost their lives to measles in Mubi North Local Government Area, while 19 fatalities were reported in Gombi LGA.