Iloilo City launches urgent measles-rubella vaccination drive for young children

Iloilo City is preparing for a Measles-Rubella Supplementary Immunization Activity in August. The campaign will target children aged six to 59 months. Health officials are urging parents and guardians to participate in the drive to protect their children from preventable diseases. The Iloilo City Health Office is actively updating its masterlist of eligible children. Teams are also conducting house-to-house visits to encourage vaccination. This effort aims to address vaccine hesitancy and a lack of awareness, which have contributed to a drop in complete immunization rates.

In 2025, the city recorded 72 suspected measles-rubella cases, up from 68 the previous year. As of Morbidity Week No. 24 in 2026, there have been 11 measles cases, with six suspected and five confirmed. The Department of Health assures the public that all vaccines are safe, effective, and free. They are also WHO- and FDA-approved.

Parents with concerns are invited to visit local health centres for more information. Officials stress that cooperation is vital for the success of the vaccination programme. The upcoming immunization activity aims to curb the spread of measles and rubella in Iloilo City. Free and approved vaccines will be available to all eligible children. Health authorities hope the campaign will improve coverage and reduce cases in the coming months.