Cameroon to launch nationwide vaccination campaign against measles and rubella

By Washira Helene

Cameroon’s Minister of Public Health has authorized a nationwide vaccination campaign against measles and rubella for children under the age of 10. According to Minister Manaouda Malachie, the campaign will run from July 5 to 9, 2023, and will target an estimated 5.5 million children.

Measles and rubella are highly contagious diseases that can cause serious health complications, including death. Measles can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, and blindness, while rubella can cause birth defects in unborn babies.

The vaccination campaign is being launched in response to a recent increase in measles and rubella cases in Cameroon. In 2022, there were over 10,000 cases of measles reported in the country and over 100 deaths.

The vaccine used in the campaign is a combined measles-rubella vaccine that is safe and effective. The vaccine is given as a single shot, and it is free of charge.

The Ministry of Public Health is urging all parents and guardians to take their children to their nearest health center to get vaccinated. The vaccination campaign is a critical step in protecting children from measles and rubella and preventing the spread of these diseases.

Mimi Mefo Info