Measles Initiative
Issue Area: Children’s Health
Since 2001, the Measles Initiative— a partnership led by the American Red Cross, the United Nations Foundation, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF and the World Health Organization—has helped reduce measles deaths by 74% globally and 89% in Africa (compared to 2000). Working closely with national governments and local communities, the partnership has supported the vaccination of more than 600 million children in more than 60 countries.
In response to an expected funding gap in 2009, we are jointly committing with the Vodafone Foundation $6 million over three years to support continued vaccination efforts. The funding will bolster childhood immunizations worldwide, helping the Initiative to reach the United Nations’ goal of reducing measles deaths globally by 90 percent by 2010.
RELATED CAMPAIGNS
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STORIES OF IMPACT
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$1 Can Keep Measles Away
Area of Involvement: Children’s Health
In many parts of the world, mothers still fear that they may lose their children to measles. An estimated 540 children die each day from the disease, which can be prevented with a vaccine that costs just $1.
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Video: Creator of the Measles Vaccine Describes Impact
Area of Involvement: Children’s Health
Dr. Samuel Katz and his team developed the measles vaccine now used globally. He recounts his experiences battling a disease that affected millions worldwide.
