Fort Portal City authorities have pledged to intensify community outreach in preparation for a five-day measles-rubella vaccination campaign. The campaign, which began on October 1, 2026, aims to ensure every eligible child receives the vaccine. The target population includes children aged 9 months to 5 years. City leaders are urging parents and caregivers to take responsibility for their children's health by bringing them to vaccination posts.
According to Fort Portal City Health Officer Dr. Emma Mugisa, 28 districts, including neighboring Kagadi and Kyegegwa, have reported measles-rubella cases this year. The disease spreads easily, with one infected child capable of passing it to between 12 and 28 others in a school or community. Dr. Mugisa emphasized the importance of community mobilization and parental responsibility in preventing measles outbreaks.
The city has deployed 90 vaccination teams to administer vaccines at existing outreach sites, such as schools, churches, and health facilities. Assistant City Health Officer Annet Kabahenda stated that these teams will work to ensure that all eligible children receive the vaccine. The goal is to achieve more than 100% vaccination coverage, indicating a commitment to comprehensive community protection.
Local leaders have pledged to support the vaccination campaign by working with LC I chairpersons and Village health teams to mobilize communities. Komuntale Traxier, the city general purpose committee and woman Councilor representing Central Division, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the campaign's success.
The measles-rubella vaccination campaign will run from October 1 to 5, 2026. During this period, vaccination teams will be stationed at various outreach sites, providing access to the vaccine for all eligible children. City authorities are optimistic about achieving their goal of over 100% vaccination coverage.
The campaign's success will depend on the level of community engagement and participation. Parents and caregivers are being encouraged to bring their children to vaccination posts, where they will receive the measles-rubella vaccine. By doing so, they can help prevent measles outbreaks and protect their children from the disease.
The Fort Portal City measles-rubella vaccination campaign is a critical public health initiative aimed at protecting children from a highly contagious disease. With the support of local leaders, vaccination teams, and the community, the city is poised to achieve its goal of over 100% vaccination coverage.
Key points
- Fort Portal City aims to achieve over 100% measles-rubella vaccination coverage among children aged 9 months to 5 years.
- The city has deployed 90 vaccination teams to administer vaccines at existing outreach sites.
- 28 districts, including neighboring Kagadi and Kyegegwa, have reported measles-rubella cases this year.
