Odisha Reaffirms Commitment to a Measles-Rubella Free Future during World Immunization Week 2025

Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards strengthening public health and safeguarding future generations, Odisha’s Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, today launched a comprehensive set of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials aimed at accelerating the Measles and Rubella (MR) elimination programme in the State.

The event was held at the Directorate of Public Health here today as part of the celebrations for World Immunization Week 2025, observed globally from April 24–30 under the theme: “Immunization for all is humanly possible.”

Speaking at the event, the Health Minister reaffirmed Odisha’s unwavering commitment to eliminating Measles and Rubella by the year 2026 — in alignment with India’s national target.

Highlighting Odisha’s outstanding performance in child healthcare, he stated that the State has achieved a remarkable 90.5% full immunization coverage, the highest among all Indian states, according to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). This milestone is a testament to the dedication of healthcare workers, community support, and strong inter-departmental coordination.

“Immunizing children and pregnant women remains our topmost priority,” said Dr. Mahaling. “It is the most cost-effective and life-saving public health intervention. Together, we must ensure no child is left behind,” he added.

The Minister emphasized that the success of the MR elimination mission depends on a collaborative approach involving multiple government departments such as Health & Family Welfare, Women & Child Development, School & Mass Education, ST & SC Development, Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water, Housing & Urban Development, and Information & Public Relations. Their joint efforts are being strengthened at state, district, and block levels.

He further appealed for the active participation of parents, caregivers, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, PRI members, community leaders, NGOs, SHGs, and civil society to create a grassroots movement for immunization awareness and action.