By: Isuru Parakrama
November 04, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Health has initiated a targeted measles vaccination campaign across 12 key districts, starting today (04) and running up to November 09.
This is in response to isolated measles cases reported last year despite the nation’s successful elimination of the virus.
Senior Epidemiologist Dr Hasitha Tissera, from the Ministry’s Epidemiology Unit, emphasised that the campaign aims to reach unvaccinated children and those who missed their doses due to various circumstances.
The programme prioritises younger individuals, especially those who may have had only one dose or none at all, ensuring that they receive full immunity with a second dose if required.
“Our goal is to administer an additional measles vaccine to at-risk groups,” Dr Tissera said. “Despite significant progress over the last two decades, there remains a risk of resurgence if the virus re-enters the community, particularly among individuals lacking complete vaccine protection.“
