Clinics Flooded as Parents Rush to Vaccinate Children — Zimbabwe Targets 95% Immunisation
Thousands of parents across Zimbabwe are flooding clinics to vaccinate their children, as the country races toward its national target of 95 percent immunisation in a high-stakes measles-rubella and Vitamin A campaign.
The week-long nationwide drive, led by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, is targeting children aged 9 to 59 months for the measles-rubella vaccine and those aged 6 to 59 months for Vitamin A supplements.
The campaign comes amid rising global measles outbreaks, with Zimbabwe taking a proactive stance to maintain high immunity levels and prevent similar crises.
A snap survey in Harare and Goromonzi districts revealed strong participation, with both mothers and fathers arriving early at clinics.
“My wife has gone to work, so I decided to come with my children myself.
“Health officials told us the importance of getting our children vaccinated, and we made sure our kids would not miss the opportunity,” said one parent.
Goromonzi District had a target of 7,775 eligible children for both vaccines.
According to ZBC, District Medical Officer Dr Simbarashe Mundawaro said,
“I am glad to say we have met that target. By day four, district coverage stood at 91.5 percent, thanks to strong community mobilisation.”
Health officials have emphasized that even in the absence of an outbreak, prevention remains critical.
“When children miss vaccination, immunity gaps widen and can expose the community to outbreaks,” said Harare Metropolitan Provincial Nursing Officer, Mr Daniel Mashava.
Measles remains one of the world’s most contagious diseases, but Zimbabwe’s sustained immunisation efforts continue to shield children and reduce the long-term burden of preventable illnesses.
To ensure no child is left behind, the campaign has been extended to Sunday at selected centres across the country.
