Lao PDR Launches Major Vaccination Campaign Against Measles and Rubella

On May 17, 2024, the Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR) initiated a nationwide measles and rubella (MR) campaign. This effort aims to immunize over 500,000 children under the age of five, addressing the rising cases of these vaccine-preventable diseases.

The campaign is a collaborative initiative involving the Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Government of Australia, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO). The MR vaccine is available free of charge at all health centers under the Ministry of Health.

Health Minister H.E. Dr Bounfeng Phoummalaysith emphasized the significance of the campaign, stating, "This campaign marks a decisive moment in our unwavering commitment to safeguard the health of our children. Vaccinations play a crucial role in combating the serious threats posed by measles and rubella."

Nadia Lasri, Senior Country Manager and Coordinator of Gavi support in Lao PDR, highlighted the importance of reaching every child, especially those unvaccinated. "Gavi's support for this nationwide measles-rubella campaign builds on our ongoing efforts to strengthen Lao PDR's routine immunization programme. With global cases rising, we must double down on our efforts to reach every child, especially those unvaccinated, and ensure no community is left behind," she said.

In February 2024, Lao PDR received over 650,000 doses of the MR vaccine to support the country's routine immunization efforts. This substantial supply aims to ensure that the vaccination campaign can effectively cover the targeted population.

The campaign's launch at Vientiane Center in the capital, Vientiane, marks a strategic response to the global increase in measles and rubella cases. These rising cases are largely attributed to low vaccination rates among children, making the campaign's success critical for public health.

This vaccination campaign underscores the collaborative efforts of international and national partners in safeguarding children's health in Lao PDR. By providing free MR vaccines and focusing on reaching every child, the initiative aims to mitigate the threats posed by these diseases and enhance the country's routine immunization program.

Key Takeaways

• Lao PDR launches nationwide measles and rubella vaccination campaign.
• Goal: Immunize over 500,000 children under 5 to combat rising cases.
• Partners: Ministry of Health, Gavi, Australia, UNICEF, and WHO.
• Free MR vaccines available at all health centers.
• Campaign aims to strengthen routine immunization program.