The Ministry of Health has launched a nationwide measles-rubella vaccination campaign targeting approximately four million children between the ages of nine months and five years. The two-week drive involves over 20,000 health workers and volunteers who will operate from fixed health posts, temporary outreach sites, and mobile teams reaching the most inaccessible communities.

The campaign comes in response to a resurgence of measles cases, with 3,500 confirmed infections reported this year compared to just 800 in the previous year. Health officials attribute the spike to pandemic-era disruptions that caused many children to miss routine immunizations.

UNICEF has provided 4.5 million vaccine doses and supported the cold chain logistics required to maintain vaccine efficacy in areas without reliable electricity. Solar-powered refrigeration units have been deployed to 350 remote health posts to ensure proper storage conditions.

Parents are being urged to bring their children to the nearest vaccination site regardless of their previous immunization status. The campaign aims to achieve at least 95 percent coverage to restore herd immunity and prevent future outbreaks.