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MR vaccination reaches 62%

Fraye Cedrick Anona · Sep 26, 2026, 2:13 AM

A HEALTH worker administers a measles-rubella vaccine to a child at a center in Roxas City as part of the 2026 Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization activity. — Photograph courtesy of DOH-6

Western Visayas recorded 62 percent coverage in the 2026 Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA), with health workers and local partners reaching communities despite geographic and operational challenges.

As of 7 September, Iloilo province posted the highest coverage in the region at 67.7 percent, followed by Antique at 63.5 percent, Guimaras at 59.3 percent, Iloilo City at 57.4 percent, Capiz at 57.1 percent and Aklan at 52.9 percent, according to the Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DoH WV CHD).

DoH WV CHD regional director Dr. Mar Wynn D. Bello credited frontline health workers, local government units and development partners for bringing vaccines closer to families.

“Every child represents the work of health workers, families, communities, local governments, and partners united by one purpose, to ensure that no eligible child is left unprotected,” Bello said.

The campaign highlighted the importance of community-based vaccination in preventing measles and rubella, particularly among children who may have missed routine immunization.

Dr. Jose Martin Atienza, DoH WV CHD regional immunization program coordinator, stressed that health professionals also play a key role in building public confidence in vaccination through accurate information.

“Out of 10 children who are not vaccinated against measles, nine are likely to get sick, while one person with measles can infect 12 to 18 others,” Atienza said. “That is why every vaccine is important to protect our children and our community.”