Attention Abu Dhabi parents, the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre is running a free MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccination drive for children aged one to five years old in response to a rise in cases worldwide. The drive will run until 17 June. While measles can impact children of all ages, those under five years old are particularly vulnerable. Vaccinations are available at 58 health centres across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.
The campaign follows a warning from the World Health Organisation regarding an increase in the number of measles cases across 53 countries in Europe and Central Asia last year compared to 2022. The Abu Dhabi centre cautioned that measles is extremely contagious, with the virus spreading through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
What Is Measles
Measles is a very contagious virus. It spreads through the air when someone with measles coughs or sneezes. It starts by infecting the respiratory tract and then moves throughout the body. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash on the body.
Important Things To Know About Measles Vaccine Campaign
- The vaccination campaign will run until 17 June, focusing on children aged one to five. Eligible participants include children of UAE nationals and residents.
- One dose of MMR vaccine will be administered free of charge to the targeted groups.
To know more about the vaccine and vaccine centres, head to the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre website.