Preparations under way for measles-free society

The second phase of the national campaign for a measles free society will be implemented by the Ministry of Health in coordination with the private sector and community level organisations from September 10-16.

Except for Al Wusta and Dhofar governorates, the campaign includes all the governorates of the Sultanate.

Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidy, Minister of State and Governor of Muscat, will officially inaugurate the campaign at Al Khuwair North Health Centre in Muscat.

The government and private health institutions and the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital will welcome citizens and residents (in the age group 20-35). The campaign will contribute to eradicating measles, halting the incidence of the disease, reducing the severity of the disease, closing the immune gaps and strengthening the immunity of the society.

The Ministry of Health has urged all citizens and residents aged between 20 and 35 years (born between 1982 to 1997) to go to health centres according to the dates specified for each governorate to receive immunisation in order to protect them from infections.

The campaign for a measles free society is expected to have a widespread support from the private, government as well as social and community organisations.

The vaccination will be available at the nearest health institutions free of charge during morning and evening shifts.

According to officials at Badr al Samaa Hospital, the vaccination will be offered free of cost, but the residents should present the copy of their passport or the resident card.