A brief surge in measles cases in Andhra Pradesh last year became a turning point for action. Between January and March 2025, the state identified seven outbreaks—six in Alluri Sitarama Raju district and one in Vizianagaram. Rather than viewing these as a setback, the state health department sought critical insight from these outbreaks to identify where immunization efforts needed strengthening—in urban fringes, tribal areas, and border pockets. The findings created a clear roadmap for strengthening protection.
The response was swift, focused, and solution driven.
From May to July 2025, the state implemented three intensive, seven-day measles-rubella (MR) vaccination special drives. Building on lessons learned, house-to-house surveys were conducted to develop precise, hyper-local micro-plans aimed at reaching every eligible child. Community engagement was amplified through meetings, announcements, and targeted information campaigns, ensuring families were informed and involved. District and sub-district task force meetings enhanced coordination across sectors, while medical officers were reoriented on the Revised Routine Immunization Manual to further improve service quality.
Support from the WHO–National Public Health Support Network strengthened implementation through capacity building, real-time monitoring, and continuous feedback.
/countries/india/who-npsn-meeting-in-andhra-pradesh.jpg?sfvrsn=eb1918f9_3 "WHO-NPSN meeting in Andhra Pradesh")
A WHO-National Public Health Support Network team at a district task force meeting in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh (© WHO India/ Srinivasu)
The results were substantial. Across three rounds, more than 66 800 immunization sessions were held at fixed and outreach sites. Over 22 000 children received their first MR dose, and more than 18 700 completed their second dose—significantly boosting immunity across the state.
Beyond the numbers, the drives marked a shift. More children were protected. Microplanning became more precise, coordination more effective, and surveillance systems more responsive. In just a few months, Andhra Pradesh transformed early warning signs into an opportunity—strengthening its immunization system and accelerating progress toward measles and rubella elimination.