District Health Officer (DHO) Dr. B. Basavaraj has reassured the safety of Measles-Rubella vaccine appealing people not to pay heed to rumours on side effects of the vaccine.

Addressing a press meet at his office in Nazarbad here this morning, Dr. Basavaraj said that the immunisation campaign against the two deadly diseases has begun yesterday throughout the country with a mission to eradicate Measles and Rubella in the country by 2020. He added that about 1.5 lakh kids had succumbed to Rubella around the world last year including 50,000 in India. He further said that 6 to 7 kids had contracted the disease in the district and the immunisation should be viewed seriously.

Continuing, Dr. Basavaraj said that a single vaccine to combat both Measles and Rubella has been developed after a long research which is proven safe and sure after thorough clinical studies. However a few ignorant people have uploaded wrong messages on social media regarding side effects of the vaccine which is baseless and advised parents not to fall prey to such incorrect and irrational messages.

The DHO further strengthening his stand said that 75,000 kids were vaccinated yesterday in 112 schools with not a single kid complaining of any side effect. To remove fear off the minds of students, the vaccination is now being done one by one, so as to not scare other students. Only disposable syringes are used for vaccination which will be extended to Health Centres, Anganwadi Centres and children at homes. A meeting was held with community leaders, elected representatives and teachers before the vaccination campaign to create awareness,  added the DHO.

MMC&RI Dean and Director Dr. B. Krishnamurthy, Paediatrician Dr. Ranappa, Campaign Convenor Dr. Gopalakrishna and others were present.