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| India Honored with Measles and Rubella Champion Award [Source: Healthcare Radius] |
India received the prestigious Measles and Rubella Champion Award for its outstanding efforts in combatting these infectious diseases. Presented by The Measles and Rubella Partnership at the American Red Cross Headquarters in Washington D.C., USA, on March 6th, 2024, the award was accepted by Ambassador Sripriya Ranganathan, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India, Washington D.C., on behalf of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
The Measles and Rubella Partnership:
The Measles and Rubella Partnership is a collaborative committee comprising the American Red Cross, BMGF, GAVI, US CDC, UNF, UNICEF, and WHO. Dedicated to reducing global measles deaths and preventing rubella illness, the partnership recognizes India’s significant contributions.
India’s Commitment to Public Health:
The award acknowledges India’s steadfast commitment to public health and its leadership in curbing measles and rubella. Utilizing ‘measles as a tracer,’ India strengthens routine immunization under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).
Progress Amidst Challenges:
Despite challenges, India has made significant progress in reducing measles and rubella cases, thanks to proactive vaccination campaigns, innovative strategies, robust surveillance, and public awareness initiatives.
Recognition of Frontline Workers and Policymakers:
India’s frontline health workers, policymakers, and communities have been pivotal in achieving remarkable milestones. Notably, 50 districts reported no measles cases and 226 districts reported no rubella cases over the past year.
Measles and Rubella Elimination:
The MR vaccine has been part of India’s Universal Immunization Programme since 2017, reflecting the government’s commitment to eliminating these diseases.