India, June 12 -- Beginning June, the Maharashtra government has launched a statewide special immunisation drive against measles and rubella (MR) in line with the national goal to eliminate the two potentially life-threatening diseases by 2026, said officials.

Dr Sandeep Sangale, joint director of health service, family welfare bureau, Maharashtra, said, "Officials will conduct survey and identify high-risk areas and vulnerable populations, especially where routine immunisation coverage is below 95%. A rapid head count survey will be carried out each month to detect children who have dropped out or missed their MR1 or MR2 doses. They will be vaccinated in campaign mode."

As many as 19 lakh children in the state will be covered.

Measles...