Nationwide measles and rubella vaccination drive launched

WEB DESK: In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the Government of Pakistan has announced a nationwide measles and rubella vaccination campaign set to run from November 17 to 29, 2025, aimed at protecting millions of children from preventable diseases.

According to official reports, the campaign will target approximately 35.4 million children aged between six and 59 months across the country. Over 140,000 healthcare workers will be mobilised and trained to administer vaccines and ensure that every eligible child receives protection against the highly contagious viruses.

WHO Representative in Pakistan, Dr Luo Dapeng, emphasised that “vaccines save lives and protect children from deadly diseases.” Meanwhile, Dr Sofia Younas, Director General of the Federal Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), described the initiative as a national priority, reaffirming the government’s commitment to reaching every child.

The campaign comes amid a surge in measles cases across Pakistan in 2025, with health officials reporting that 57 percent of affected children had not received any vaccination. Authorities have urged parents to ensure timely immunisation to prevent further outbreaks and safeguard children’s health nationwide.