By Alan Clement
Health authorities in Morobo County have launched a week-long measles vaccination campaign following confirmed cases of the disease in the area.
According to the county’s press unit, the campaign, which began on Monday September 15, 2025, at the county health department premises, targets children aged six months to five and a half years with over 50 children receiving their first dose of the measles vaccine.
In a statement, authorities confirmed three suspected cases of measles in the county through laboratory tests which raised concern among health officials.
They said the initiative is a critical response to prevent further spread in a region where medical infrastructure remains severely limited.
“It is quite alarming for such a deadly infection, especially given the poor status of medical facilities in Morobo,” said Paul, the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) Supervisor.
Morobo County Executive Director Ezbon Gale underscored the urgency of the exercise, warning of the risks posed by measles if left unchecked. “Children are the future of this county, but a county where children are sick means the authorities are not doing their roles.
That is why we are launching this vaccination campaign to ensure that all the eligible children are vaccinated,” Gale said in a statement.
The Executive director called on local leaders and organized forces to play an active role in supporting the campaign.
“I urge the community through the area chiefs to support the vaccination teams when they reach your area and mobilize the children for vaccination. I also urge the organized forces to ensure that any children in their barracks are vaccinated,” he appealed.
Gale further addressed vaccine hesitancy among parents, urging them to reject misinformation.
“There are people who say their children have never been vaccinated before and therefore do not want them to be vaccinated, while others say these vaccines are not good. If you find anyone who resists the vaccines, notify the authorities,” he warned.
County Health Director James Malish urged parents and guardians to cooperate fully with health teams. “I urge the community to cooperate with the EPI team and notify us if anyone misses the vaccines,” Malish said.
The campaign is being supported by non-governmental organizations, health workers, and local officials.