Management of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has said that no child died at the hospital as a result of receiving the Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccine.

Some children who received the vaccine elsewhere were brought to UBTH Children’s Emergency Ward for medical attention on account of febrile illness.

Spokesman for the hospital, Osaretin Iyen, said the children were treated, stabilized, and subsequently discharged home in good health.

Iyen said it was an eight-year-old male child with sickle cell disease who was admitted for treatment alongside others in the Children’s Emergency Ward of the hospital, who died.

He said there was no evidence to suggest that the Measles–Rubella vaccine caused or contributed to the death in question.

According to him, “UBTH remains committed to patient safety, public health, and transparent communication. The hospital urges the media and the public to rely on verified information from credible health institutions and to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated reports that may cause unnecessary public concern.

“Management wishes to further reassure the public that vaccines, including the Measles–Rubella vaccine, are safe, effective, and approved by national and international health authorities.

“The hospital extends its sympathy to the affected family and reassures the public of its unwavering dedication to the health and well-being of all patients.” (The Nation)