Mass immunization campaign ends today

By Saudha Nakandha

THE week long mass measles immunization campaign is  to be concluded today (Monday). The campaign was spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, Lions Clubs International and other stakeholders.

John Bosco Ntangaare, the chairman Lions National Immunisation Committee of the Lions Clubs of Uganda said the campaign is targeting 7 million children country wide.

"We aim at giving supplementary immunisation and kicking measles out of communities. We have so far registered success in most areas. For instance here at Kamwokya we expected 1000 children but the number has surpassed that target," Ntangaare said.

Doctor Timothy Muwonge a past president of the Lions Clubs of Uganda said it is important to immunize all children as measles is an infectious disease that affects all.

“When you see a child with signs of measles, consider the fact that the whole community is affected. Take children for immunization and prevent such occurrences,” Muwonge noted. 

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A mother registers before presenting her child for immunisation at the Kamwokya Catholic Parish Church. Photo by Saudha Nakandha

The Acting Manager of Uganda National Expanded Programme for Immunization (UNEPI), Dr. Henry Luzze said the mass campaign targets children of 6 months to five years of age and that it will not replace the routine immunization that takes place at the usual health facilities.

According to 2015 World Health Organisation’s reviewed information on Measles, statistics indicate that it is one of the leading causes of death among young children.

In 2013, there were 145,700 measles deaths globally – about 400 deaths every day or 16 deaths every hour.

Measles vaccination resulted in a 75% drop in measles deaths between 2000 and 2013 worldwide.

In 2013, about 84% of the world's children received one dose of measles vaccine by their first birthday through routine health services – up from 73% in 2000.

During 2000-2013, measles vaccination prevented an estimated 15.6 million deaths making measles vaccine one of the best buys in public health.