Yemen’s National Vaccination Campaign: Aiming to Protect Over a Million Children from Measles and Rubella

Yemen’s National Vaccination Campaign: Aiming to Protect Over a Million Children from Measles and Rubella

A National Endeavour Amidst Conflict

Amidst the ongoing conflict in Yemen, the Yemeni government has launched an ambitious national vaccination campaign targeting more than one million children. This campaign, focused on immunizing children against measles and rubella, covers children aged between 6 months and 59 months across 121 districts in the 13 provinces under government control. The campaign was officially inaugurated by Yemeni Prime Minister Maeen Abdulmalik in the southern port city of Aden.

Prime Minister’s Call to Action

Prime Minister Abdulmalik, during his media statement, emphasized the importance of the campaign, urging all citizens to support this crucial initiative. The campaign’s primary goal is to eradicate the potentially fatal measles disease, which has seen a resurgence in recent years following a significant drop due to past immunization efforts. The Prime Minister also personally administered vaccine doses to several children at the launch event, symbolizing the government’s commitment to this cause.

(Read Also: Yemen’s Vice President Highlights Southern Independence in Negotiations with Houthis)

Collaboration for a Healthier Future

The campaign is a collaborative effort led by Yemen’s Ministry of Public Health and Population, with significant support from international organizations including the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children’s Fund, and the GAVI vaccine alliance. By pooling their resources and efforts, these entities aim to enhance vaccine coverage, protect vulnerable communities, and prevent future outbreaks of infectious diseases.

(Read Also: Metropolitan Museum of Art Transfers Ownership of Ancient Yemeni Artifacts Amid Ongoing Conflict)

The Challenge of Conflict

The project comes amidst Yemen’s ongoing conflict, which started in late 2014 when a group identified as a terrorist organization by leading nations seized control of much of the country’s north and ousted the internationally recognized government from the capital, Sanaa. This conflict has inflicted significant damage on the country’s health infrastructure and left millions of people dependent on humanitarian aid. Despite these challenges, the government, along with its partners, is determined to protect the country’s most vulnerable population – its children.

The Road Ahead

The effort to eradicate measles and rubella in Yemen is a monumental task, one that requires national commitment and international support. Despite the ongoing conflict and the various challenges it presents, the Yemeni government’s determination to safeguard the health of its children is commendable. As the nation continues to navigate through these trying times, the success of this campaign could serve as a beacon of hope for a healthier future for Yemen’s children.

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