Cambodia Launches Nationwide Immunization Campaign Against Measles-Rubella
PHNOM PENH, 31 October 2024 – In a significant public health initiative, the Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Cambodia has launched nationwide supplementary immunization activities against measles and rubella today, aimed at protecting over 1.5 million children aged 9 to 59 months across 25 provinces. This campaign, termed the Measles-Rubella Supplementary Immunization Activities (MR SIA), is catalyzed by rising global measles cases and inadequate vaccination coverage exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Amidst concerns over a global measles outbreak, especially in populations with low immunization rates, the Cambodian government’s MR SIA addresses an urgent health crisis. According to statistics, global measles cases surged from 170,000 in 2022 to over 320,000 in 2023, highlighting the need for immediate protective measures.
Health Security and Immunization Gaps
Cambodia is particularly vulnerable to outbreaks due to its proximity to regions suffering from low immunization coverage. The campaign targets several high-risk demographics, including children, migrants, and communities along the border. Health officials emphasize that this MR SIA is a crucial step towards enhancing national health security and working towards the country’s goal of eliminating measles.
H.E. Prof CHHEANG Ra, Minister of Health, has called on health personnel and partners to collaborate to ensure complete coverage for the target population. “Health personnel have done a good job during previous immunization campaigns, and I am confident they will do everything possible to reach every child,” he said, particularly those in hard-to-reach areas, such as urban poor households and remote rural communities.
Vaccination Coverage and Urgency
Despite progress, the WHO/UNICEF estimates for 2023 indicate that Cambodia’s national coverage for the first and second doses of the measles-rubella vaccine stands at only 79% and 64%, respectively. These rates fall below the necessary thresholds to avert outbreaks and prevent fatalities.
Dr. Marianna Trias, WHO Representative to Cambodia, emphasized the preventable nature of measles and rubella. “This nationwide MR SIA is a vital step towards health equity,” she stated, underscoring WHO’s commitment to closing immunity gaps within communities.
Nadia Lasri, Gavi’s Senior Country Manager in Cambodia, added, “Our support for this MR SIA complements ongoing efforts to strengthen Cambodia’s routine immunization programme and reach unvaccinated children in urban areas and beyond.”
Campaign Support from Global Organizations
The MR SIA is bolstered by financial and technical support from multiple international organizations, including Gavi, the WHO, UNICEF, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI). Their contributions ensure that the campaign is well-resourced and aligned with global health standards.
Dr. Will Parks, UNICEF Representative to Cambodia, noted the importance of community engagement. “Effective communication with local authorities is key to ensuring that parents bring their children to vaccination posts,” he said. This highlights the ongoing efforts to strengthen Cambodia’s healthcare infrastructure and ensure sustainable vaccination services.
Soleine Scotney, Country Director for CHAI Cambodia, commended the dual efforts of the health ministry to not only conduct a powerful MR campaign but also enhance routine vaccination touchpoints at 9 and 18 months. This multifaceted approach is perceived as vital to safeguarding child health in Cambodia.
Safe and Free Vaccination
The campaign employs the WHO-prequalified measles-rubella vaccine delivered through auto-disable syringes. This vaccine is recognized for its safety and efficacy, having protected children worldwide for over five decades. All children aged 9 to 59 months, regardless of prior vaccination status, are encouraged to receive this lifesaving measure as part of Cambodia’s strategy to bolster community immunity.
Join the Conversation
As Cambodia embarks on this essential public health journey, it invites community members and readers to engage in discussions around immunization and child health. Areas like public health resonate profoundly with technology enthusiasts who understand the significance of systematic solutions to health challenges. This campaign doesn’t just aim to eliminate measles; it strives to create a healthier, more resilient future for Cambodian children.
For more on public health initiatives and technology’s role in advancing health security, stay connected with us. Share your thoughts and experiences related to vaccination in the comments section below!
References:
- WHO/UNICEF Estimates of National Immunization Coverage
- Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance
- UNICEF
For insights into similar global health initiatives, explore sources like TechCrunch, The Verge, and Wired for more on technology’s impact in health sectors.
