LUSAKA - The Ministry of Health has vaccinated more than 304,000 children during an emergency immunization campaign aimed at containing measles outbreaks in five priority districts across Zambia.
The Emergency Measles-Rubella Outbreak Response Immunization Campaign was launched in response to active measles transmission in selected districts.
Ministry of Health Head of Communication and Public Relations Twaambo Siavwapa said 304,774 children were vaccinated during the campaign, representing 88 percent of the targeted population.
Mr. Siavwapa explained that the continued transmission of measles is largely being driven by immunity gaps within the population, highlighting the importance of increasing vaccination coverage to prevent further outbreaks.
Meanwhile, Lusaka Provincial Health Director Dr. Simulyamana Choonga said the province has recorded a cumulative total of more than 155 measles cases since the beginning of the year, with two deaths reported.
The Ministry of Health has continued to encourage parents and guardians to ensure children receive routine vaccinations as part of efforts to protect communities from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Source: ZNBC News
By: Nyambe Nalishebo