Measles and Rubella Supplementary Immunization Activity (MR SIA) 2024

Measles is one of the leading causes of death among young children worldwide. It is also one of the most contagious communicable diseases in the world. It is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 90 per cent of the people close to that person who are not immune will also become infected.

In the past few years there has been a concerning jump in global measles cases and outbreaks.  Currently there are measles cases in many countries, including Viet Nam, the Philippines, Indonesia, the United States and countries in Europe. In Lao PDR, not enough people are immunised against measles, meaning that it could just take a single case of measles to start a large-scale outbreak in the country. However, we have the opportunity to prevent this – but we need to act fast.

In response to this situation, the Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, Gavi, the Government of Australia, UNICEF, and WHO is launching a nationwide measles-rubella vaccination campaign in Lao PDR. Over 630,000 children aged 9-59 months or under five years of age in Lao PDR will be provided with the measles-rubella vaccine during this campaign, including those who missed their chances to get vaccinated during the pandemic.

The campaign will run from 20-31 May 2024.

To all parents, caregivers and community leaders, you are invited to join this campaign to protect your loved ones and communities from these diseases. The measles-rubella vaccine is available and will be provided at all hospitals and health facilities nearby you.