WHO issues updated guidance on verifying the elimination of measles and rubella
Revised guidance on verifying the elimination of measles and rubella, and monitoring progress in at least 5 WHO Regions by 2020, is the focus of a framework prepared by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE). The updated guidance, published in WHO’s Weekly Epidemiological Record today, draws on the experience gained in Regions … Continue reading
Kenya surpasses 95% target as nearly 6 million children are vaccinated in nationwide measles campaign
Text by Zorodzai Machekanyanga, WHO Photos courtesy of the Kenyan Red Cross Kenya conducted its nationwide measles Supplemental Immunisation Activities (SIAs) successfully from 3 to 7 November 2012, and vaccinated nearly 6 million children aged 9 to 59 months, reporting 99% coverage. In addition to measles vaccine, all targeted children were given supplemental doses of Vitamin A. … Continue reading
Dangers of measles on children with cancer highlighted in New Zealand
New Zealand health authorities have released a new series of stories highlighting the well-founded fear of measles for young people with cancer. Drawn from interviews with four young people, Protecting Children with Cancer from Measles tells of the real ways the measles outbreak changed their lives. Children undergoing cancer treatment are particularly vulnerable to illnesses … Continue reading
Measles mortality reduction: A successful global public health strategy
“Traveling through Africa in 2000 to assess the needs and begin to devise a plan, I was shocked to see every hospital had an entire ward for children with serious measles complications. Large numbers of beds were crowded into small areas occupied by children in their last phase of life.”
Stop Measles, Rubella & Congenital Rubella Syndrome 