MEASLES OUTBREAKS AND UNDER-FIVE MORTALITY IN NIGERIA: ISSUES AND POLICY OPTIONS

Abstract

Nigeria’s under-five mortality is one of the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa region comparatively. Perhaps this is related to the rising outbreaks of measles. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of measles outbreaks on under-five mortality in Nigeria between 1986 and 2021. Findings from the co-integration technique employed shows a positive effect of measles outbreaks on under-five deaths in Nigeria. Based on the results of the findings, the study recommends need for government at all levels, stake-holders in the private sectors and NGOs to focus on reducing measles attacks on under-five children by promoting children related health policies and vaccinations that will halt the menace of under-five deaths in Nigeria.