UNICEF joins forces with Sri Lanka to tackle Measles outbreak

Colombo, Jan 04 (UNICEF) - In a collaborative effort to combat a surge in measles cases since May 2023, UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) are set to support the Ministry of Health in Sri Lanka in implementing a comprehensive supplementary measles immunization activity (SIA).

With over 700 reported cases, the first phase of the vaccination campaign is slated to commence on January 6 across nine districts heavily affected by the outbreak.

The targeted districts include Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Kandy, Jaffna, Kurunegala, and Kalmunai, where a high population density has fueled the spread of measles. The second phase, scheduled for January 20, will expand the vaccination efforts to cover additional age groups nationwide.

UNICEF Representative in Sri Lanka, Christian Skoog, emphasized the critical role of immunization in preventing outbreaks, stating, "Even with high immunization coverage, measles outbreaks can occur, especially when there are regional outbreaks. The Ministry of Health is taking proactive steps to control the situation, and UNICEF is proud to support these efforts."

Skoog highlighted UNICEF's past collaboration with the Ministry of Health during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021, where assistance was provided to maintain the quality of vaccines by addressing gaps in the cold chain equipment system. This support has laid the groundwork for the effective implementation of the upcoming supplementary immunization activity.

Dr. Palitha Mahipala, Secretary to the Ministry of Health, expressed confidence in the success of the vaccination drive, citing Sri Lanka's exceptional track record with over 99% immunization coverage. Dr. Mahipala stated, "Sri Lanka is the only country that has reached a 99.9% immunization coverage. With this supplementary immunization activity, I am optimistic that reported measles cases will decrease."

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine has been integral to Sri Lanka's immunization program since 1984. Despite achieving WHO's measles-free status in 2019, a drop in global immunization coverage from 2020 to 2022 has contributed to the recent resurgence of measles cases in the region.

Dr. Alaka Singh, WHO Representative to Sri Lanka, emphasized the importance of preventing measles, stating, "Measles can be a major childhood disease, and the Ministry of Health has swiftly initiated a rapid supplementary immunization activity to curb its spread. WHO fully supports this program and Sri Lanka's overall recovery."

Stakeholders at a recent press briefing stressed the importance of strategic public awareness and community engagement to convey the urgency of vaccinations.