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National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign (2025-26) Launched: Aiming to eliminate Measles and Rubella (M-R) in India by 2026. Launched during World Immunization Week (April 24-30) under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).
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Goal: Achieve 100% immunization coverage with two doses of the M-R vaccine.
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Progress:
- Over 90% M-R vaccination coverage in 2024-25. (HMIS data reports 93.7% for first dose and 92.2% for second dose)
- 73% reduction in measles cases and 17% reduction in rubella cases in 2024 compared to 2023.
- 332 districts reported zero Measles cases and 487 districts reported zero Rubella cases during January-March 2025.
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Strategy:
- Achieve >95% vaccination coverage.
- Strengthen surveillance.
- Ensure quick outbreak response.
- Address vaccine hesitancy through awareness campaigns.
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“ACT NOW” Policy: Focuses on eliminating M-R similar to Polio and Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus elimination.
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International Recognition: India received the M-R Champion Award (2024) for its efforts in disease elimination.
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IEC Materials Released: Multi-language posters and radio jingles to create awareness.
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Call to Action: States and UTs urged to be proactive, involve local leaders, and reach remote areas to achieve 100% coverage.
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Measles & Rubella: Contagious viral diseases affecting children, preventable through vaccination. Measles complications can be severe, and rubella during pregnancy can lead to Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS).
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Under UIP: Two doses of MR vaccine are provided free of cost at 9-12 months and 16-24 months of age.