India received the Measles and Rubella Champion Award for its vigorous efforts in combating these diseases. Ambassador Sripriya Ranganathan accepted the award on behalf of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare at the American Red Cross Headquarters in Washington, DC, US, on March 6.
The Measles and Rubella Partnership, including agencies like the American Red Cross, BMGF, GAVI, US CDC, UNF, UNICEF, and WHO, commended India’s dedication to reducing global measles deaths and rubella illness.
India’s commitment to public health and leadership in controlling infectious diseases among children was acknowledged, particularly through its Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) and proactive MR vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas. Despite challenges, India has made significant progress in reducing measles and rubella cases and preventing outbreaks, with 50 districts not having any measles cases and 226 districts reporting no rubella cases in the last year. The MR vaccine has been part of India’s UIP since 2017, aiming for the disease’s elimination.
The award recognises the efforts of frontline health workers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities nationwide. India’s robust surveillance systems and public awareness initiatives have played a crucial role. The government remains committed to eliminating measles and rubella from the country, prioritising the health and well-being of its population.
