Measles Vaccination Expansion to 40 Years – Municipal Update
- The Municipality of el Alto, Bolivia, is launching an expanded measles vaccination campaign targeting individuals between the ages of 15 and 40, following a recent increase in cases...
- Bolivia had previously considered measles eliminated since 2016, but cases began to rise in mid-2024, initially in the department of Santa Cruz before spreading to other regions, including...
- A "significant amount" of measles vaccines will be distributed through the municipality's Expanded Immunization Program (PAI), according to Miguel Quispe, head of the epidemiology unit of El Alto.
Measles vaccination Campaign Expanded in El Alto, Bolivia
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Addressing a Resurgence of Measles
The Municipality of el Alto, Bolivia, is launching an expanded measles vaccination campaign targeting individuals between the ages of 15 and 40, following a recent increase in cases across the country. This initiative builds upon earlier vaccination efforts focused on children and adolescents, responding to a health emergency declared by the Ministry of health due to the outbreak.
Bolivia had previously considered measles eliminated since 2016, but cases began to rise in mid-2024, initially in the department of Santa Cruz before spreading to other regions, including the departments of Potosí and La Paz.
Vaccine Availability and Access
A “significant amount” of measles vaccines will be distributed through the municipality’s Expanded Immunization Program (PAI), according to Miguel Quispe, head of the epidemiology unit of El Alto. Vaccination points will be established in all 14 districts, with a particular focus on reaching remote areas.
Quispe emphasized that access will be prioritized for those facing challenges related to time, distance, or other logistical barriers. The vaccine, a double dose protecting against both measles and rubella (SR vaccine), is free of charge and requires only a national identity card for administration.
Vaccination Details and Tracking
Once administered, each vaccine dose will be recorded in the national vaccination system to prevent needless revaccinations. Health officials are urging anyone under 40 who is unvaccinated or has not completed their measles vaccination schedule to take advantage of this chance.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease, but it is preventable through vaccination. The campaign aims to contain the spread of the virus and protect public health.