Measles-rubella vaccination drive kicks off in Balochistan

Published
A vial of the measles, mumps, and rubella virus (MMR) vaccine is pictured. — Reuters/File
A vial of the measles, mumps, and rubella virus (MMR) vaccine is pictured. — Reuters/File

QUETTA: A special measles-rubella vaccination campaign is to be conducted across Balochistan from Nov 17 (today) to 29, aiming to vaccinate more than 2.2 million children, Expanded Programme on Immunisation’s provincial coordinator Dr Aftab Kakar announced on Sunday.

During a press conference, Dr Kakar highlighted the persistent danger of the disease. “Measles remains a serious health threat in Balochistan, endangering thousands of children every year,” he said.

So far in 2025, more than 1,700 cases have been reported in the province, though Dr Kakar noted the actual number is believed to be much higher due to underreporting.

He said that more than 20 children die from measles each year in Balochistan.

Published in Dawn, November 17th, 2025

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