A media briefing was held this week at the Littoral Regional Delegation of Public Health in Douala to address a growing epidemiological threat. Capitalizing on the region’s strong media presence, the Delegation invited 13 news organizations to the event.
Demonstrating high engagement across platforms, 80 percent of the invited outlets, comprising radio stations, television channels, print newspapers, and digital news sites, were present to cover the official update.
Addressing the press, the Regional Delegate, Mr. Charles Yopndoi, presented a sobering picture of the public health situation. “For several years now, we have been facing a persistent measles epidemic across the national territory, as well as in our region,” he stated. He revealed that between 2025 and 2026, the outbreak affected 20 out of the region’s 24 health districts, resulting in thousands of infected children.
On a national level, official press documentation reveals a cumulative total of 9,369 confirmed cases by the 33rd week of 2026, with 122 districts currently declared in an active epidemic phase. Officials attribute this surge primarily to insufficient vaccination coverage. While first-dose coverage for the measles-rubella – MR vaccine stood at 85 percent in 2025, second-dose uptake lagged at just 70 percent, well below the threshold needed to interrupt viral transmission. Consequently, unimmunized children account for 76 percent of all confirmed cases.
To curb transmission, the Ministry of Public Health is launching a multi-faceted response campaign focused on children aged 9 to 59 months. According to Mr. Yopndoi, the initiative aims to vaccinate young children against measles while catching up on those who are under-vaccinated or have received zero doses.
Immunization efforts will take place in healthcare facilities and at designated mobile posts, including local markets, traditional chieftaincies, major intersections, places of worship, and schools hosting eligible children.
The campaign is being carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic Education and the Ministry of Communication, supported by administrative leaders, local municipalities, community figures, and partner ministries.
Despite resource constraints and a gradual decline in international partner funding, Mr. Yopndoi appealed to families and media outlets to actively support the social mission. He emphasized that complete community coverage is vital, warning that as long as unvaccinated children remain, even those who have received the vaccine face ongoing risks.
