CATARMAN, Northern Samar — Northern Samar has intensified its campaign to protect young children from measles and rubella as provincial health authorities launched the 2026 Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) on August 10.
The “LIGTAS TIGDAS: Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity 2026” was launched at the New Administration Building of the Northern Samar Provincial Hospital, led by the Northern Samar Provincial Hospital (NSPH), Provincial Health Office and Department of Health (DOH) Northern Samar.
The campaign aims to increase immunization coverage and protect eligible children from measles and rubella, both of which can cause serious complications among young children.
For the province, about 66,396 targeted children are to be given with the vaccine during the campaign.
Dr. Joseph Estanislao, chief of hospital, opened the program by emphasizing the importance of vaccination in protecting children from vaccine-preventable diseases. He also called on parents and communities to actively participate in the campaign.
Dr. Teresita Myra Luzon conducted a health education session on measles and rubella, including the importance of Vitamin A supplementation. She discussed the health risks associated with the diseases and the benefits of timely vaccination.
Sarah Jane Narca, provincial national immunization program assistant program coordinator, presented an overview of the MR-SIA 2026, including its objectives, implementation strategies and target coverage.
Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Aurora Dubongco-Vicencio and DOH Eastern Visayas Assistant Regional Director Dr. Catherine Layon-Miral also underscored the need for strong cooperation among health workers, local governments, communities and parents to achieve high immunization coverage.
NSPH personnel added a lively element to the launch through a presentation of the MR-SIA campaign jingle and dance, followed by a ceremonial vaccination marking the official start of the campaign in the province.
Following the ceremony, healthcare workers immediately began administering measles-rubella vaccines to children aged 6 to 59 months, or those below five years old.
Health authorities reminded parents that vaccines are safe and effective and provide protection against measles and rubella, locally known as measles and German measles, respectively.
They also urged parents not to hesitate in having their children vaccinated, stressing that timely immunization can help prevent the spread of the diseases and reduce the risk of hospitalization and death.
The campaign emphasizes that achieving protection against measles and rubella requires the participation of parents and communities alongside healthcare workers.
(EUGENE M. ENANO)
