Ministry of Health Trains Media Ahead of National Measles and Rubella Vaccination Campaign

The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Department of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and UNICEF, held a three-day media training session. The goal was to strengthen media engagement ahead of Lesotho’s National Measles and Rubella Vaccination Campaign launching on 20 October 2025.

The training focused on raising awareness among journalists about their key role in sharing accurate, timely, and impactful information. Effective media coverage is critical to building public understanding and support for the vaccination effort.

Mr Francis Abobo, an EPI Consultant with WHO, explained the dangers of measles and rubella. Measles is a highly contagious viral disease causing high fever, cough, red eyes, and rash. Untreated cases can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, blindness, or death. Rubella is milder but dangerous for pregnant women. Infection can cause Congenital Rubella Syndrome, leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth defects including deafness and brain damage.

Mr Abobo stressed the importance of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine. Given in two doses to children aged 9 to 59 months, the vaccine is safe, free, and essential for protecting both children and the community.

Ms Reaboka Maraisane from UNICEF led sessions on fighting misinformation. She trained journalists on fact-checking and promoting clear health messages. Ms Maraisane highlighted how misinformation causes vaccine hesitancy and urged journalists to use their platform responsibly.

By the end, participants accepted their role in saving lives through accurate reporting. This training prepares the media to support Lesotho’s vaccination campaign and improve public health outcomes.