Shielding children’s health with vaccines in Rural Damascus
UNICEF supports the national immunization campaign across Syria to ensure every child grows up healthy and protected
Arbin city, Rural Damascus, Syria- Across Syria, thousands of health workers are protecting children from vaccine-preventable diseases during a nationwide immunization campaign from 13-23 October 2025.
Led by the Ministry of Health, in partnership with UNICEF and WHO, and with funded by the Vaccine Alliance – GAVI, the campaign aims to reach 3.2 million children under five across the country.
The effort focuses on reaching zero-dose and under-immunized children and on protection against measles through timely vaccination.
After years of crisis and displacement many children have missed routine vaccines. Through community outreach and mobile vaccination teams, the campaign is reaching remote and hard-to-access areas, helping families safeguard their children’s health and future.
In the weeks leading up to the campaign, nationwide outreach through media, home visits, and community meetings encouraged families to vaccinate their children. Health educators built trust and confidence, boosting participation and showing the power of collective action to protect children’s health.
UNICEF/UNI886107/Johnny Shahan
UNICEF/UNI886106/Johnny Shahan
Masa, two and a half years old and her brother Suhaib, five months old, receive their vaccinations at a health centre during the national immunization campaign.
“I read about the campaign on Facebook. I brought my children to the health centre because I believe vaccination is the best way to keep them healthy and protected from diseases.”
Ahmed, father
In Arbin city, Rural Damascus, the local health centre has been welcoming children and their families daily. Two mobile teams travel to distant neighborhoods, bringing vaccines directly to families who might otherwise struggle to access services. From early morning, caregivers arrive with their little ones as dedicated health workers prepare vaccines, register children, and reassure families about the safety and importance of immunization. The Arbin health centre aims to reach around 4,250 children during the ten-day campaign, ensuring every eligible child receives doses needed for full protection.
As the campaign continues across Syria, UNICEF remains committed to protecting every child’s right to health. Together with partners and communities, UNICEF will keep working so that no child is left behind and every child has the chance to survive and thrive.
UNICEF/UNI886092/Johnny Shahan
UNICEF/UNI886094/Johnny Shahan
Maria, five months old, receives her vaccine at a health centre during the national immunization campaign in Arbin city, Rural Damascus.
“Vaccines protect not only my daughter, but also other children in the community. I never miss a session.”
Sara, mother
UNICEF/UNI886181/Johnny Shahan
UNICEF/UNI886180/Johnny Shahan
Nour, eight months old, receives his vaccine at a health centre during the national immunization campaign in Arbin city, Rural Damascus.
“I appreciate that the vaccines are free. It makes it possible for every family, even those struggling to meet basic needs.”
Batoul, mother
UNICEF/UNI886102/Johnny Shahan
UNICEF/UNI886100/Johnny Shahan
Ali, six months old, receives his vaccine at a health centre during the national immunization campaign in Arbin city, Rural Damascus.
“I trust the health centre and the advice they give. Following the vaccination schedule has become a priority for me.”
Siham, mother
UNICEF/UNI886097/Johnny Shahan
UNICEF/UNI886096/Johnny Shahan
Omar, three and a half years old, gives a thumbs-up with his father after receiving his vaccine during the national immunization campaign in Arbin city, Rural Damascus.
“After getting my vaccine, I become strong like my dad!”
Omar, 3
