Schools accused of resisting measles-rubella vaccination exercise in Soroti

What the report says

Health authorities in Soroti City, Uganda, say some schools are resisting participation in the country’s measles-rubella vaccination campaign as the five-day exercise got underway. The campaign, which began on Thursday and runs until October 5, is targeting children aged nine to 59 months, with vaccinations being delivered in schools, health facilities and community settings.

At the launch at Amecet Children’s Home in Soroti City West, city health officer Dr Noah Okiror said some schools had refused to allow health workers to vaccinate eligible children on their premises, despite earlier planning discussions. He did not name the schools involved. Health teams are continuing talks with school leaders and parents, and Dr Okiror asked the Resident City Commissioner’s office to help secure access where needed.

Dr Margaret Nabatanzi, the Ministry of Health’s national supervisor for Soroti City, said anyone deliberately blocking the campaign could face legal action. She said the vaccination drive was prompted by a rise in measles outbreaks and that a mop-up effort would follow to reach children missed during the main exercise. Deputy Town Clerk Joseph Mwesigwa suggested some opposition may stem from poor public understanding and called for stronger community sensitisation.

Soroti has received 45,900 doses for an estimated target of 43,000 children. The Ministry of Health says the vaccine is free and aims to protect young children from measles and rubella, illnesses that can lead to serious complications.