Nationwide Drive: 5.7 million children targeted in Measles-Rubella vaccination effort

KATHMANDU: Launching today, an extensive vaccination endeavor aims to protect approximately 5.7 million children aged nine months to 15 years against measles-rubella nationwide.

Running until March 20, the campaign will span 24 districts, focusing on 21 heavily impacted areas along the Indian border and three districts within the Kathmandu Valley.

In addition, children aged nine months to five years across the remaining 53 districts will receive vaccinations. Schools and designated centers will administer doses from 10 am to 4 pm daily.

Dr. Abhiyan Gautam, Chief of the Child Health and Immunization Section at the Department of Health Services, outlined the target groups: around 2.1 million children aged nine months to five years and 3.6 million aged five to 15 years.

To facilitate this nationwide effort, 48,798 vaccination centers have been established, supported by 49,937 health workers and 59,906 volunteers, ensuring efficient coverage.

This initiative underscores Nepal's commitment to eradicating measles-rubella by 2026, prioritizing the health and well-being of its young population.