KARACHI: The Sindh health department has launched a 13-day measles-rubella vaccination campaign across the province, aiming to immunize millions of children against life-threatening but preventable diseases. The initiative, inaugurated today by Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho at a special school near Numaish Chowrangi, is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen routine immunization and prevent outbreaks.
Under the campaign, officials confirmed that over 8.2 million children will receive the measles-rubella vaccine, while more than 8.4 million children under five years of age will be administered polio drops as part of the parallel polio eradication effort.
UNICEF calls for consistent yearly vaccination
UNICEF representative Dr Prem Bahadur Chand noted that measles-rubella campaigns are successfully implemented around the world, emphasizing the importance of vaccinating children every year to prevent avoidable illness, disability, and mortality.
He highlighted that high-quality immunization drives are essential for protecting communities, especially in regions where vaccine-preventable diseases remain a public health concern.
Parents urged to participate fully
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho urged parents to ensure their children receive all routine vaccines, including measles, rubella, and polio.
She stressed the importance of visiting nearby vaccination centers, following official schedules, and not paying attention to misinformation or rumors circulating on digital platforms.
“We have made extensive preparations to ensure smooth and effective implementation of this campaign,” she said, adding that full public participation is critical to protecting children and preventing disease outbreaks in the province.
Acknowledgment of partners and community support
The health minister extended gratitude to all partner organizations, including UNICEF, field teams, health workers, media personnel, and students of the special school, for supporting the initiative. She reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining strong immunization coverage across Sindh.
