Sibulan: The Department of Health-Negros Island Region (DOH-NIR) launched its Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization (MRSI) campaign in Sibulan town, marking a significant step in the nationwide effort to combat measles and rubella among young children.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Liland Estacion, the Provincial Health Office chief, noted that Sibulan was chosen as the venue for the launch due to its substantial population of young children. The event was further highlighted by a message of support from World Health Organization (WHO) consultant Dr. Mohammed Reazul Hasan, who emphasized the importance of this third phase of the MRSI campaign.
Dr. Hasan explained that the campaign aims to protect over 6.2 million children aged 6 to 59 months across the Visayas and other areas in Luzon. He reported that the first two phases of the campaign successfully covered 3.4 million children, achieving approximately 82.2 percent of the target. The third phase is set to reach nearly twice as many children as the previous efforts.
"This is important progress that also reminds us that our work is not yet finished," Dr. Hasan stated, stressing the necessity to close remaining immunity gaps. He called for intensified efforts to achieve at least 95 percent immunization coverage, ensuring that all eligible children are reached, not only in barangays but also in every 'purok' (cluster).
The DOH-NIR has set a target to immunize 437,586 eligible children in Negros and Siquijor during the campaign period from August 10 to 28. At the ceremonial immunization in Sibulan, health workers administered measles-rubella vaccines alongside Vitamin A supplements.
Health authorities reiterated their appeal to parents to vaccinate their children, irrespective of their previous immunization history. Dr. Estacion informed the Philippine News Agency that Negros Oriental remains free of measles, though some suspect cases are under investigation.
She mentioned that nine swab samples had been submitted for laboratory testing, with two results coming back negative. "Four [are] waiting for results and another three did not require testing because they did not fulfill the case definition," Estacion added.
