Minister of Health and Child Care
By Licious Mkuni
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has deployed multi-disciplinary teams to Hurungwe District, Mashonaland West Province, to investigate the Measles and Mumps outbreak and carry out mandatory mass vaccination campaign to protect the children in the affected areas.
It is suspected that Measles and Mumps outbreak has affected Hurungwe District, claiming the lives of more than 35 children within a month.
The children belonged to an apostolic religious sect that traditionally rejects modern medicine, leading to a lack of immunization.
Government made the announcement of the interventions during a Cabinet briefing Tuesday.
“The Cabinet is fully aware of the situation in Hurungwe District and is committed to ensuring the health and safety of all children. Following the distressing reports, we have sent specialized teams to conduct thorough investigations.
“To address this crisis, a mass vaccination campaign will be initiated, targeting all children in Wards 22 and 4.
“It is imperative that every child is vaccinated, attends school, and receives proper medical care. The government will take stern action against those that deliberately defy this crucial policy,” said Dr Jenfan Muswere.
The government said it will ensure a mass vaccination campaign. Implementation of a mandatory vaccination campaign to protect children from preventable
The cabinet also issued a warning and potential consequences for individuals who defy the vaccination mandate or impede the government’s response efforts.
UNICEF has been actively involved in supporting vaccination campaigns in Zimbabwe and is on the ground in the ongoing efforts in Hurungwe District.
The government of Zimbabwe is committed to safeguarding the health of children in Hurungwe District and is taking comprehensive measures to address the situation.
