The management of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Edo State, has dismissed reports circulating in some sections of the media and social media platforms alleging that children at the facility died as a result of receiving the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement from Osarettin Iyen, head of the Public Relations and Information Unit, the hospital said some children, who were vaccinated at locations outside the facility, were later brought to its Children's Emergency Ward with symptoms of febrile illness. According to the management, the affected children were immediately treated, stabilized and discharged in good health.
However, UBTH confirmed the death of an eight-year-old child suffering from sickle cell disease, who was admitted for treatment at the same emergency ward. The hospital stressed that there was no evidence linking the child's death to the measles-rubella vaccine.
“Like other medical interventions, vaccines can have side effects, but there is no evidence to suggest that measles-rubella vaccine caused or contributed to related deaths,” the statement said.
The hospital urged the public and media organizations to rely on verified information from trusted health institutions and avoid spreading unverified reports that could create panic or undermine public confidence in vaccination programs.
Management also reassured the public that vaccines, including the measles-rubella vaccine, are safe, effective and approved by national and international health authorities.
UBTH expressed its sympathies to the bereaved family and reiterated its commitment to patient safety, public health and transparent communication. It also reaffirmed its dedication to the health and well-being of all patients.
