PESHAWAR: The provincial health department has scheduled a wide-reaching measles and rubella vaccination campaign from November 17 to 29, with a target of immunizing nearly six million children.
This drive is part of a nationwide strategy to limit outbreaks and protect children from preventable diseases. Preparations were discussed in a steering committee meeting led by Special Secretary Health Mansoor Arshad, with senior officials and representatives from UNICEF, WHO, and other partner groups in attendance.
Health experts noted that more than 10,000 suspected measles cases have been reported so far this year, and almost half were among children who had never been vaccinated. In 2024, over 15,000 suspected cases were documented, emphasizing the urgent need for better coverage.
During the 12-day campaign, children aged six to 59 months will be given the measles-rubella vaccine, while those under five years will also receive oral polio drops. Alongside, other essential vaccines will be made available at health facilities.
To reach as many children as possible, over 6,900 vaccination teams—including fixed, outreach, and mobile units—will be deployed across districts, schools, madrassas, and public spaces. Authorities have urged parents to support the campaign and ensure their children are immunized.
