Measles Vaccination Day is celebrated every year to make people aware about the dangerous viral infection like measles. This day is dedicated to understanding the importance of vaccination and reducing the impact of measles.
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by paramyxovirus. This disease mostly affects young children, but if not vaccinated, older people can also be affected. Its symptoms start appearing within 7-14 days and the symptoms are as follows.
- High fever: Fever can go up to 104°F.
- Red eyes: Photophobia and conjunctivitis are also common symptoms of measles.
- Rashes: Red spots and rashes first appear on the face and then all over the body.
- Weakness and fatigue: Weakness is felt in the body after measles.
Importance of Measles Immunisation
Measles Immunisation not only protects oneself but also the society. Immunisation increases herd immunity, which also provides protection to those people who cannot get vaccinated due to some reason. It also provides immunity against complications caused by Measles such as pneumonia, encephalitis and blindness.
What is Measles Vaccine?
MMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) is given against Measles. This vaccine is given in two doses:
- First Dose: at the age of 9-12 months
- Second Dose: at the age of 15-18 months
This vaccine is 95-99% effective and provides life-long protection. Both children and adults can become immunized through vaccination.
Objective of Measles Immunisation Day
The main objectives of this day are:
- Awareness raising: To tell people about the importance of the measles vaccine so that more and more people can get vaccinated.
- Free Vaccination Camps: To provide free vaccination in poor and backward areas.
- Disease Control: To reduce the number of measles cases and ultimately eradicate it.
- Public Health Promotion: To run awareness campaigns through health workers and NGOs. Benefits of Measles Immunisation
- Children’s Protection: Immunisation protects children from measles.
- Prevention of Severe Complications: Vaccine prevents serious complications.
- Community Protection: When more people get vaccinated, herd immunity is formed.
- Global Eradication Goal: Organizations like WHO and UNICEF are working to eliminate this disease globally.
How to make Measles Immunisation Day successful
- Awareness Program: Workshops and seminars can be conducted in schools, colleges and community centers.
- Social Media Campaign: Encourage people by using hashtags like #MeaslesImmunisationDay.
- Support Local Healthcare Centers: Organize free vaccination camps in local clinics and hospitals.
- Educate Family and Friends: Tell your family and friends about the importance of vaccines
Conclusion
Measles is an avoidable disease, all you need is to get vaccinated on time. Measles Immunisation is a protective shield for everyone which provides immunity against the disease. So come on, on this Measles Immunisation Day let us all together promote immunisation and keep our family and society safe.