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Democratic Republic of the Congo Launches Nationwide Measles-Rubella Vaccination Drive
Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo – In a major public health initiative, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has commenced a comprehensive vaccination campaign targeting approximately 62 million children aged between 6 months and 14 years. This effort aims to shield young populations from measles and rubella by introducing the combined measles-rubella (MR) vaccine into the country’s routine immunization program, replacing the previously used single measles vaccine. The campaign also serves as a catch-up measure to address immunity gaps among children and adolescents for both diseases.
Phased Rollout Across Provinces to Maximize Coverage
The MR vaccine introduction and catch-up immunization will be implemented in stages, divided by provincial clusters. The initial phase, scheduled from November 27 to December 1, 2025, will cover seven provinces: Haut-Katanga, Haut-Lomami, Lualaba, Tanganyika, Bas-Uele, Haut-Uele, and Ituri. This strategic rollout is supported by a coalition of global health partners, including Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Their collaboration ensures equitable vaccine access and aims to leave no child unprotected against these highly contagious illnesses.
Addressing Persistent Measles Outbreaks and Rubella Risks
The DRC has experienced recurrent measles outbreaks, underscoring the critical need for enhanced immunization efforts. Currently, over 7 million children under five remain vulnerable to measles infection. By introducing the MR vaccine, the country not only aims to close immunity gaps caused by inconsistent routine vaccination coverage but also to reduce the incidence of Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), a serious condition affecting newborns. This campaign is a pivotal step toward achieving the WHO’s goal of eliminating measles and rubella in the region.
Government and Health Officials Rally for Community Participation
Dr. Roger Kamba, the Minister of Public Health, Hygiene, and Social Security, emphasized the importance of this campaign, stating, “Our health workers and partners deserve recognition for their dedication to safeguarding our children’s health. This vaccination drive is a critical milestone in our fight to eradicate measles and rubella. Vaccines are proven to be safe and life-saving. I urge every parent and community leader to actively participate to ensure no child is missed.”
Ensuring Access in Remote and Conflict-Affected Areas
Vaccination teams will operate through fixed health posts and mobile outreach units, guaranteeing that children in remote, underserved, and conflict-affected regions receive immunization. The campaign also incorporates robust community engagement strategies, involving civil society organizations and targeted communication campaigns to dispel myths and misinformation, thereby encouraging vaccine acceptance among caregivers.
Global Health Leaders Highlight the Significance of MR Vaccine Introduction
Dr. Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, remarked, “The rollout of the combined measles-rubella vaccine marks a significant advancement in child health across the continent. It strengthens our collective mission to prevent avoidable deaths and suffering caused by these diseases.”
Overcoming Immunization Challenges to Protect Future Generations
The DRC continues to face hurdles in achieving optimal routine immunization coverage, with rates for essential vaccines falling short of international targets. This leaves millions of children susceptible to preventable diseases. The integration of the MR vaccine into the national immunization schedule represents a vital opportunity to enhance protection against two of the most contagious and deadly childhood illnesses, ultimately improving public health outcomes nationwide.
