Govt rolls out measles vaccination in hotspots

Zim Now Writer

Government is rolling out a mass measles and mumps vaccination drive in the hotspot district Hurungwe, Mashonaland West Province, following the death of several children from the disease.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere said the vaccination drive will target children in the affected areas.

“Government will institute a mass vaccination campaign in Hurungwe District, targeting all children in the affected areas,”Muswere said.

“It is mandatory for all children to be vaccinated, attend school and receive medical attention. Government will take stern action against those that deliberately defy this policy.”

The area, which is part of Hurungwe Rural District Council ward 22, where secret burials of 35 children were undertaken between March and April, is dominated by members of the Johanne Marange apostolic sect, who do not like vaccination.