National Measles Vaccination Campaigns Underway Globally to Combat Rising Cases

As of March 9, 2026, several countries are actively conducting national vaccination campaigns against measles, responding to a global resurgence of the disease. These initiatives aim to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks, particularly following disruptions to routine immunization schedules during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Global Measles Resurgence

Globally, measles cases have more than doubled in recent years, rising from approximately 170,000 in 2022 to over 320,000 in 2023 . This increase is largely attributed to decreased immunization rates during the COVID-19 pandemic.

National Campaigns in Action

Cambodia

On October 31, 2024, Cambodia launched a nationwide measles-rubella vaccination campaign targeting over 1.5 million children aged 9 to 59 months across 25 provinces . The campaign is supported financially by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and technically by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI).

Paraguay

Beginning March 9, 2026, Paraguay initiated a National Vaccination Campaign against Measles to protect 496,000 children aged 1 to 5 years. The eight-week campaign utilizes mobile brigades and healthcare centers to administer the triple viral (MMR) vaccine . Health authorities recommend all children within this age range receive an additional dose of the MMR vaccine, even if previously vaccinated.

United Arab Emirates

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) in the United Arab Emirates launched a National Supplementary Measles Immunization Campaign in 2024, in cooperation with health authorities .

Iraq

In April 2024, Iraq undertook a national measles, mumps, and rubella campaign, mobilizing over 30,000 health workers to administer vaccinations to up to 7.5 million children .

Saudi Arabia

In November 2024, the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia launched a nationwide vaccination campaign to combat measles and rubella . The campaign began on November 3, 2024.

Why Vaccination is Crucial

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), permanent health issues, and even death. Outbreaks pose a heightened risk to vulnerable populations, such as children, migrants, mobile populations, and communities in border areas.

Protecting Communities

These national vaccination campaigns are critical measures to strengthen health security, prevent outbreaks, and operate towards eliminating measles. Health officials emphasize that vaccination is a family responsibility and encourage parents and caregivers to ensure their children are fully immunized.