Aden — The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the arrival of a new shipment of measles vaccines in Yemen, aimed at protecting thousands of children from the highly contagious and potentially deadly disease. 

The delivery, which landed this week in Aden, was made possible through generous financial support from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The shipment comes amid a worrying surge in measles and rubella cases across Yemen, where years of conflict have severely disrupted routine immunization services. 

According to WHO, the vaccines will be distributed in coordination with Yemen’s Ministry of Public Health and Population and UNICEF, targeting children between 6 months and 5 years old in high-risk areas.

Dr. Arturo Pesigan, WHO Representative in Yemen, welcomed the Saudi-funded contribution, stating: “This shipment is a vital step in preventing further outbreaks and saving young lives. We are grateful for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s continued support in addressing Yemen’s urgent health needs.”

The vaccines will support an integrated immunization campaign that also includes vitamin A supplementation and health awareness efforts. The campaign is expected to reach hundreds of thousands of children in governorates most affected by the recent outbreaks.

Saudi Arabia’s funding was channeled through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), which has been a key partner in supporting Yemen’s health sector. 

The initiative reflects broader international efforts to contain the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases in conflict zones and ensure equitable access to life-saving interventions.

Health officials have urged families to bring their children to designated vaccination sites and mobile clinics, emphasizing that early immunization is critical to preventing severe complications and halting transmission.

The WHO reiterated its call for sustained funding and access to vulnerable communities, warning that gaps in immunization coverage could lead to further outbreaks if not urgently addressed.