Cebu measles-rubella vaccination drive falls far short of targets amid misinformation

Cebu Province’s 2026 measles-rubella supplemental immunization activity reached only 21.2% of its target children, a sharp decline from the 90% achieved in 2023 and far below the 95% herd-immunity benchmark. The lowest-performing local government unit reported about 10% coverage, while the highest reached 55%, prompting the campaign’s extension by a week to September 4. Health officials attributed the shortfall largely to vaccine misinformation and parental hesitancy, noting empty vaccination sites despite long travel by teams.

To counter the trend, barangay health workers conducted door-to-door visits, provided transport, and held community forums, while clinics operated on weekends and holidays. As of early September, the Department of Health in Central Visayas had vaccinated roughly 22% of the regional target, with Cebu City at 18.5%, Lapu-Lapu City at 30.2%, and Mandaue City at 29.9%. Provincial NIP coordinator Dr. Mario Joyag Jr. warned that low coverage leaves children vulnerable to measles complications, and Governor Pamela Baricuatro urged vaccination to prevent a potential outbreak.