MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) renewed its appeal to parents and guardians to ensure children are vaccinated against measles, following data showing that Mindanao accounts for a substantial portion of reported cases nationwide.
From Jan. 1, 2025 to Jan. 3, 2026, Mindanao recorded 2,172 measles cases, representing 42 percent of all cases reported across the country, according to DOH data.
In response, the health department has launched Phase 1 of the Ligtas Tigdas or Measles-Rubella Vaccine Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) in Mindanao, aiming to vaccinate 2.8 million children aged 6 to 59 months.
The DOH urged parents to bring their children to the nearest vaccination sites regardless of prior vaccination history, emphasizing that the supplemental campaign seeks to prevent serious complications, hospitalizations, and deaths linked to measles and rubella.
Measles remains a highly contagious disease that can cause severe health complications, particularly among young children, but is preventable through timely immunization, the department said.
While adverse reactions to the measles-rubella vaccine are uncommon, the DOH assured the public that healthcare workers are equipped to address any possible side effects.
The department also stressed that public cooperation is essential, noting that high vaccination coverage is key to curbing transmission and safeguarding communities, especially in high-risk areas such as Mindanao. (PNA)
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