Health 26 September 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Uganda Launches Major Measles-Rubella Vaccination Drive for 7.4 Million Children
Uganda is initiating a five-day measles-rubella vaccination campaign from October 1-5, 2026, aiming to immunize approximately 7.47 million children aged nine to 59 months to combat rising outbreaks. Source: https://observer.ug/news/measles-govt-targets-7-4-million-children-in-5-day-vaccination-campaign
The Ugandan government is set to conduct a significant nationwide measles-rubella (MR) vaccination campaign, targeting over 7.4 million children under five years old. The initiative, scheduled for October 1-5, 2026, aims to achieve at least 95% coverage of the eligible population, including those in refugee communities.
The campaign is a direct response to a concerning resurgence of measles across the country, with recent data indicating widespread outbreaks. Ministry of Health reports show that in 2025, 66 districts recorded confirmed measles outbreaks, leading to over 10,000 cases and 60 deaths. This year, as of April, 20 districts had already reported outbreaks.
Health officials attribute these outbreaks to several factors, including declining routine vaccination coverage, particularly for the second MR dose, which stood at only 64% in 2025. Other contributing issues include hard-to-reach populations, vaccine hesitancy, weak surveillance systems, and delays in seeking medical attention.
Dr. Michael Baganizi, a senior official with the Uganda National Expanded Programme on Immunisation (UNEPI), emphasized that the campaign is crucial for closing immunity gaps. He urged parents to bring their children for vaccination even if they have received a dose previously, explaining that this is a booster to strengthen immunity. The campaign is distinct from the routine immunisation schedule.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis, especially in young children. Rubella, while often milder, poses significant risks to pregnant women, potentially causing congenital abnormalities in newborns. The campaign aims to mitigate these serious health threats.
The vaccination effort is being supported by international partners including Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and UNICEF. The government and partners have committed approximately Shs 20 billion to fund the campaign, though concerns remain about Uganda’s reliance on donor funding for immunisation programs. Parents are encouraged to utilize this free vaccination service available at various health facilities and community locations.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)