News– Union Health Minister recently launched the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign 2025–26. The launch, held on the first day of World Immunization Week (April 24–30), marks a major step toward India’s goal of eliminating measles and rubella by 2026.
About National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign 2025-26
Aim: The campaign aims to achieve 100% immunisation coverage of children against Measles and Rubella, both of which are highly contagious viral infections that can lead to severe complications or even death in children.
Dosage schedule: Two doses of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine are administered under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP)—the first at 9–12 months and the second at 16–24 months of age.
Target areas: The campaign prioritises inclusive and equitable coverage, with a special focus on remote and hard-to-reach areas, urban slums, migratory populations, and regions prone to frequent outbreaks.
Progress and Recognition:
- Between January and March 2025, 332 districts reported zero measles cases, while 487 districts recorded zero rubella cases.
- In 2024, India witnessed a 73% reduction in measles cases and a 17% decrease in rubella cases compared to the previous year.
- For its sustained efforts, India received the Measles and Rubella Champion Award (2024) from the Measles and Rubella Partnership.
Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP):
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