The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a stark warning about the extreme contagiousness of measles, revealing that a single infected individual can potentially transmit the disease to sixteen other people. This high transmission rate underscores a critical public health risk, especially for unvaccinated populations.
High Contagion Rate Demands Urgent Action
In a recent social media advisory, health authorities emphasized the virus's potency. "Sixteen unvaccinated children can be infected by one patient with measles," the DOH stated. This fact highlights why measles outbreaks can spread with alarming speed in communities with low vaccination coverage. The department firmly reiterated that vaccination remains the safest and most effective shield against this dangerous disease.
Nationwide Supplemental Immunization Drive Announced
To combat this threat, the DOH is rolling out a large-scale Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR SIA). The campaign specifically targets children aged six months to five years old. The rollout will be conducted in phases across the archipelago.
Phase 1 is scheduled for January 19 to February 13, 2026, and will focus on the Mindanao region. The health department aims to vaccinate approximately 2.8 million children in Mindanao during this period.
Phase 2 will follow in June 2026, covering Luzon and the Visayas. The target is to immunize around 5.6 million children in Luzon and another 1.9 million in the Visayas.
A Critical Call for Community Protection
The DOH is making a renewed and urgent appeal to parents and guardians to participate in this crucial immunization activity. With the clear mathematical reality of how quickly measles can spread, vaccinating children is not just an individual protective measure but a vital community responsibility. The success of the drive is essential to build population immunity and prevent widespread outbreaks that could overwhelm local health systems.
The department encourages the public to watch for official announcements from local health centers and barangays regarding the specific schedules and venues for the free vaccination activity in their areas.
