The Health Department has issued a red alert across Tripura’s Unakoti district following a sharp rise in measles cases in the Kailashahar subdivision. Alongside emergency monitoring, authorities have stepped up efforts to expand Measles-Rubella (MR) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage, with a strong focus on awareness and grassroots-level implementation.
According to official data, 260 measles cases had been detected in Kailashahar subdivision till Friday afternoon, prompting concern among residents. Health officials, however, urged the public not to panic, stating that the situation is under close surveillance and necessary measures are being taken to contain the spread.
A key subdivision-level review meeting was held at the Kailashahar Circuit House to assess the progress of MR and HPV immunisation programmes. The meeting was chaired by Kailashahar Municipal Council Chairperson Chapala Debroy and attended by senior health officials, including Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr Shirshedu Chakma, District Immunisation Officer Dr Sandipan Bhattacharya, and District Family Welfare Officer Dr Amit Debbarma. Representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), administrative officials, Panchayat members, and social workers were also present.
During the meeting, officials reviewed immunisation data and identified areas with low vaccination coverage. Discussions focused on increasing uptake of the MR vaccine among children and HPV vaccination for adolescent girls aged 14, highlighting its role in preventing cervical cancer.
Authorities stressed the importance of community participation, urging local leaders, influencers, and religious figures to help spread awareness about vaccine safety and effectiveness. Plans were also made to conduct door-to-door surveys through coordinated efforts by health workers at the Panchayat level.
To strengthen the response, the department has decided to organise special vaccination camps across all blocks in the coming weeks. A multi-pronged awareness campaign has already been launched, including LED displays, local TV advertisements, microphone announcements in remote areas, leaflet distribution, and direct outreach.
School teachers are also being involved to educate parents and guardians about the importance of immunisation. Officials expressed confidence that these combined efforts will significantly boost vaccination coverage and help contain the outbreak.
