Philippines: Provinces prep for measles-rubella vaccine drive

Health workers in South Cotabato and North Cotabato provinces are preparing for a month-long measles-rubella vaccination drive from October 26 to November 25.

South Cotabato aims to vaccinate at least 95% of the eligible children, targeting around 149,000 kids in the area, to prevent possible outbreaks and achieve herd immunity.

From January to October, South Cotabato recorded 86 measles and rubella cases with two fatalities, while North Cotabat reported 211 cases including 11 deaths.

The Department of Health has set guidelines for the vaccination activities which will be conducted in fixed posts like health centers and hospitals to prevent overcrowding during the ongoing pandemic.