Campinas Launches Active Search for 11,837 Children with Pending Measles Vaccinations

Campinas, Brazil, is intensifying its efforts to combat a potential measles outbreak by initiating an active search for 11,837 children under 4 years old who have pending vaccination records. This figure represents 19.2% of the registered children in this age group within the municipal SUS system. The urgency stems from 15 confirmed measles cases in the state of São Paulo in 2026, affecting individuals from infants to adults up to 50 years old. Campinas has not recorded measles infections since 2021, and last year achieved a 98.3% coverage rate for the first dose of the triple viral vaccine. The pending records may indicate incomplete vaccination schedules, private vaccinations, doses administered elsewhere, or system errors. Children aged 0-4 are prioritized due to their higher risk of severe illness. The coordinator of the Immunization Program highlighted the high contagion risk, especially with children returning to school and enclosed spaces, emphasizing the need for proactive vaccination updates. To prevent the virus's resurgence, Campinas will conduct an active search for unvaccinated children and organize immunization events in schools. A multivacination campaign begins on Monday, August 3rd, with a special event on August 22nd. Public and private schools are also advised to educate families on vaccine importance, and hospital staff will receive training for potential cases. Nationally, Brazil has confirmed 18 measles cases in 2026, with 15 in São Paulo, occurring in areas with high population mobility and international travel.