Egypt's Ministry of Health and Population is preparing to launch a nationwide free vaccination campaign against measles and German measles in October 2026. The campaign aims to vaccinate 21 million children aged 9 months to 10 years, including Egyptian and non-Egyptian residents. The ministry will use the MR vaccine to prevent the spread of measles and German measles.
The ministry has identified certain groups of children who are not eligible for the MR vaccination. These include children with a history of severe allergic reactions to previous doses of the measles or German measles vaccine or to certain components of the vaccine. Children with severely weakened immune systems or those taking immunosuppressive medications require evaluation by their treating physician before receiving the vaccine.
Children with acute illnesses or high fever may have their vaccination postponed until their condition improves, as assessed by a medical professional. However, mild symptoms such as minor colds do not necessarily preclude children from receiving the vaccination. The medical team at the vaccination site will evaluate each child's suitability for vaccination.
Parents are advised to inform the medical team about any significant health information regarding their child, particularly if the child has a chronic illness, weakened immune system, or has previously experienced a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine. The medical team will assess the child's condition before administering the vaccine and make an informed decision.
The vaccination campaign will be conducted through multiple sites, including schools, nurseries, health centers, and mobile medical units, to ensure easy access for children. The Ministry of Health provides vaccination services through a wide network of primary healthcare centers and units across various governorates.
Children who have previously received vaccinations against measles are not automatically excluded from participating in the campaign. The health authorities will determine the appropriate dose according to the national vaccination program and campaign instructions. The ministry emphasizes the importance of adhering to the medical team's instructions at the vaccination site.
The Ministry of Health urges parents to have their children vaccinated during the campaign and to attend designated vaccination sites, disclosing any special health conditions to the medical team before receiving the dose. The ministry stresses that vaccinations are a crucial means of preventing infectious diseases and protecting children and society.
Key points
- The Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population will launch a nationwide vaccination campaign against measles and German measles in October 2026, targeting 21 million children.
- Certain children with health conditions, such as severe allergic reactions or weakened immune systems, are not eligible for the MR vaccination.
- Parents are advised to inform the medical team about their child's health status before vaccination.
