More than five million children aged between nine months and five years have so far received the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine as Uganda’s five-day mass immunisation campaign enters its final day.
The Ministry of Health says the campaign, which started on Thursday, October 1, has so far reached over five million children, representing significant progress towards the target of 7.5 million children.
“Over 5 million children aged 9 months to 5 years have received the Measles – Rubella vaccine in the ongoing,” Ministry of health revealed.
The nationwide campaign ends today, Monday, October 5, and is aimed at increasing protection against measles and rubella amid concerns over recurring outbreaks in parts of the country.
The vaccination drive was launched by Health Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi, who urged parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the required vaccine doses and complete the recommended immunisation schedule.
Baryomunsi also warned against the practice of parents taking their children for the first dose but failing to return for subsequent doses, stressing that completing the vaccination schedule is important for sustained protection.
Although the campaign has generally recorded strong uptake, health officials have reported vaccine hesitancy in some areas, including Wakiso District, where some parents have been reluctant to have their children vaccinated.
The Ministry of Health has continued to encourage parents and caregivers to take advantage of the campaign and have eligible children vaccinated before the exercise closes.
The campaign is being conducted under the theme: “Uganda United for a Measles-Rubella Mass Immunization: Protecting Every Child for a Healthier Uganda.”
