CAPIZ — A total of 150 children aged 6 to 59 months in Capiz received the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine during the regional launch of the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MRSIA) at the Circulo Convention Center in Pueblo de Panay, Roxas City, on August 6, 2026.
The activity marked the official launch of the MRSIA in Western Visayas, which is part of a nationwide initiative to prevent the resurgence of measles and rubella.
The vaccination campaign will run from August 10 to 28, targeting thousands of eligible children across the region.
Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Ramon Alex Nolasco emphasized the importance of community participation in ensuring that all eligible children receive the vaccine.
“We appeal to all mothers and fathers who have not yet registered their children in the master list to visit their Barangay Health Stations. It is essential to prioritize your child’s health and ensure they are vaccinated against these preventable diseases,” Nolasco said.
He also called on parents and communities to support healthcare workers implementing the vaccination campaign.
“As we officially launch this campaign, let us renew our commitment to work together in support of our healthcare workers, engage with our health communities, and ensure that every eligible child identified is reached with these essential services,” he said.
World Health Organization consultant Dr. Anthony Omoko reaffirmed the organization’s support for the Department of Health and local health authorities in the vaccination drive.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that all children receive their vaccinations and are thus protected from measles and rubella. Our aim is to vaccinate over six million children across the nation, with Western Visayas being tasked with administering the Measles-Rubella vaccine and Vitamin A supplementation to 400,000 children,” Omoko said.
Health officials stressed that measles and rubella can cause serious complications, particularly among young and unvaccinated children. Measles, for instance, may lead to pneumonia, encephalitis and death.
Vaccination protects children from these preventable diseases and helps reduce their spread within communities.
Local health authorities have prepared trained healthcare workers at various Barangay Health Stations to administer the vaccines and provide parents with information on immunization and the importance of completing recommended vaccination schedules.
Parents with questions or concerns about the vaccination campaign may coordinate with their local health authorities and rural health units (RHUs)./PN
