Ilocos Norte is targeting at least 25,000 more children for vaccination against measles rubella until Aug. 31 as part of continuing efforts to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases.

As of Aug. 13, data show that a total of 16,889 or 39.6 percent children in Ilocos Norte have been vaccinated, leaving 25,743 yet to be protected.

Dr. Rickson Balalio, provincial health officer, said in an interview Friday that the ongoing vaccination drive aims to reach eligible children (aged 6 to 59 months or under 5 years old) through health facilities, schools, village health stations, and community-based vaccination activities.

Health workers are coordinating with local government units and families to ensure that children in both urban and far-flung communities are reached.

“We encourage all parents and guardians to support the Measles Rubella Supplemental Immunization campaign for the whole month of August to prevent complications associated with measles and rubella, which can spread rapidly among unvaccinated populations,” Balalio said.

The campaign also seeks to address missed or delayed vaccinations by bringing immunization services closer to communities and strengthening the information campaign.

Balalio reiterated that the vaccines are safe and effective.

The World Health Organization said measles-containing vaccines have been used safely for decades, with serious adverse reactions extremely rare. (PNA)