Union Health Minister Shri J P Nadda launches National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign on the occasion of World Immunization Week Measles-Rubella elimination campaign 2025-26 marks an opportunity to achieve 100% immunization coverage to provide high quality life to children by administering them with two doses of Measles and Rubella vaccine Shri J P Nadda“332 districts across the country have reported zero Measles cases and 487 districts have reported zero Rubella cases during January- March 2025 which underscores the progress achieved in the goal of M-R elimination”“With the ‘ACT NOW’ policy, we have to target the elimination of M-R in the same way as Polio and Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus elimination was achieved, so that no child is left behind”Currently India's MR vaccination coverage stands at 93.7% for the first dose and 92.2% for the second dose, as per 2024-25 HMIS data

Published on 24-Apr-2025 08:39 PM

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Launching India’s Zero Measles-Rubella initiative on World Immunization Week

In an effort to tackle one of the most challenging public health issues in the world—Measles and Rubella—the Union Health Ministry recently launched the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign, marking a significant milestone in global immunization efforts. Shri J P Nadda, the Minister for Health, delivered a powerful address at the World Immunization Week, emphasizing the importance of addressing Measles and Rubella cases comprehensively to ensure that no child was left behind.

The Campaign: A Comprehensive Approach

The initiative is part of India’s broader strategy under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), aiming to protect children from preventable diseases. This includes achieving zero cases for both Measles and Rubella, ensuring universal vaccination coverage, and significantly reducing mortality rates among under-five years.

Statistics Highlighting Progress

First Shot Coverage: With approximately 93.7% of children receiving the first dose of Measles vaccine.
Second Shot Coverage: Around 92.2% of children achieving the second dose of Rubella, a crucial step toward eliminating these preventable diseases.

The Minister’s Message

Shri Nadda stressed the urgency of the cause, stating that eliminating Measles is a global goal and India’s efforts are commendable. He highlighted the decline in Measles cases by 73% compared to the previous year and the reduction in Rubella cases by 17%, underscoring the campaign’s effectiveness.

State Collaboration and Support

State Health Departments have joined hands with the Union Health Ministry and other partners to coordinate vaccination efforts. The U-WIN digital platform has played a vital role in tracking vaccinations, generating certificates, and book appointments for pregnant women and newborns, ensuring comprehensive coverage across India.

Line Missions and Expertise

The government’s robust infrastructure supports continuous improvement. Joint Secretary, along with Principal Secretaries from various states and Mission Directors, ensure that the campaign remains impactful by leveraging existing resources and expertise.

The Global Significance of the Initiative

Measles is one of the most severe infectious diseases worldwide, making its elimination a global priority. Through this initiative, India aims to set a new benchmark for global health efforts, inspiring other nations to take action towards eliminating preventable diseases like Measles and Rubella.

In conclusion, Shri J P Nadda’s launch of the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign marks a significant step forward in global immunization. With continued support from governments and stakeholders, India is set to make a lasting impact, ensuring that every child has the chance to secure their future with aMeS vaccine.

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