India Launches National Campaign to Eliminate Measles and Rubella by 2026

1. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign.
2. This initiative was unveiled during World Immunization Week, reinforcing India’s commitment to disease prevention.

What are Measles and Rubella?

1. Measles and Rubella are highly contagious viral infections that can lead to severe health complications or death.
2. These diseases are especially dangerous for children and pregnant women, often causing lifelong disabilities.

India’s Elimination Target

1. India has set a national goal to eliminate Measles and Rubella by the year 2026.
2. The campaign is a major step under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).

MR Vaccine Coverage in India

1. Under UIP, two doses of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine are provided free of cost to children.
2. As per 2024–25 Health Management Information System (HMIS) data:
   1. First-dose coverage of MR vaccine stands at 93.7%.

Second-dose coverage has reached 92.2%, indicating strong immunization progress.

 

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