Wakiso District health authorities have launched a public awareness campaign ahead of the nationwide measles-rubella vaccination drive targeting 570,000 children aged nine months to five years, scheduled for October 1–5, 2026. The initiative, supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO), aims to prevent outbreaks of diseases that can lead to severe complications, including blindness, pneumonia, and congenital rubella syndrome. Dr. Morine Katusiime of WHO emphasized the vaccines' safety, stating, "The government cannot kill its own children," while urging parents to disregard misinformation and prioritize immunization. The campaign coincides with broader efforts to strengthen childhood immunization in Uganda, with officials stressing the critical role of public cooperation.
Health workers in Wakiso have intensified outreach to address vaccine hesitancy, with Dr. Joseph Kasumba of the Uganda Red Cross highlighting vaccination as a "critical intervention" to prevent preventable illnesses. Michael Nsimbi, the Deputy District Health Educator, reiterated the importance of ensuring all eligible children receive the jab, warning that missed vaccinations could exacerbate health risks. Meanwhile, educators have raised concerns about parental restrictions on school-based immunizations, with Harriet Nakirya, Education Inspector for Kira Municipality, noting that measles and rubella infections disrupt learning through prolonged absences. She warned that such illnesses impose financial burdens on families and hinder academic progress, urging collaboration between parents, schools, and health workers to maximize coverage.
The vaccination campaign comes as Wakiso faces challenges in maintaining public trust, with some parents reportedly withholding children from immunization due to unfounded fears. Health officials have called for transparent communication to counter misinformation, while emphasizing the campaign’s role in reducing preventable deaths. Dr. Katusiime reiterated that the government’s commitment to child health is non-negotiable, stating, "Parents should have confidence in the vaccine that will be used to immunise their children." The initiative aligns with Uganda’s national immunization strategy, which seeks to eliminate measles and rubella through mass vaccination efforts.
Community engagement remains central to the campaign’s success, with health workers urging parents to bring children to designated centers. Officials have also addressed concerns about vaccine safety, citing WHO guidelines and local health data to reinforce public confidence. As the October 1–5 window approaches, Wakiso leaders are prioritizing outreach in schools and neighborhoods to ensure no child is left behind. The effort underscores the intersection of public health and education, with stakeholders agreeing that protecting children’s health is essential for both their well-being and academic development.