Daijiworld Media Network - Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 18: The continuing mumps outbreak in Kerala, which began in late 2023 and has persisted into 2026, has renewed demands for including the mumps-measles-rubella (MMR) vaccine in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP).

Outbreaks have forced the closure of schools and hostels for weeks in Alappuzha, Thrissur and Kottayam, highlighting concerns over the spread of the viral infection and the need for stronger preventive measures.

The demand for including the MMR vaccine in the national immunisation programme has gained momentum following studies in Kerala that have documented immunity gaps among children and highlighted complications that can lead to long-term disability.

Researchers have also pointed to genetic differences between the mumps virus currently circulating in the state and the strain used in the vaccine. These findings have intensified discussions about the effectiveness of existing preventive strategies and the need to strengthen vaccination coverage.

The continued exclusion of the MMR vaccine from the UIP has consequently come under renewed scrutiny, with public health concerns highlighting a potential gap in efforts to prevent mumps and its complications.