[02/08/2026 06:06]

MARIB-SABA

Authorities in Marib have approved a series of emergency measures to contain a worsening measles outbreak that has killed 12 children and infected 1,624 others, most of them in camps for internally displaced people.

The measures were endorsed at a meeting chaired by Deputy Governor Dr. Abdulrabbo Miftah with representatives of the Health Cluster. Officials said 85 percent of reported cases have been recorded in displacement camps as the governorate continues to receive families fleeing Houthi-controlled areas.

The meeting approved a comprehensive response plan that includes standardized treatment protocols for suspected and confirmed cases, an emergency measles vaccination campaign, public awareness drives on prevention and the importance of childhood immunization, and increased coordination with the Ministry of Public Health and Population and humanitarian partners to mobilize additional support.

Participants warned that the Houthi terrorist militia's continued obstruction of childhood vaccination campaigns in areas under its control has fueled the spread of preventable diseases and increased the risk of transmission to displacement sites.

The meeting also reviewed the governorate's epidemiological situation, disease surveillance data, outbreak hotspots, response plans, available resources, and the operational challenges facing health authorities.

Miftah urged United Nations agencies and international organizations working in the health sector to provide immediate support for an emergency vaccination campaign, including the supply of vaccines, medicines, and essential medical equipment.

He described the growing number of infections and fatalities as a serious public health concern requiring stronger disease surveillance, expanded immunization efforts, and urgent interventions in displacement camps and densely populated communities.

Miftah added that the continued influx of displaced people from areas controlled by the Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist militia is placing mounting pressure on Marib's healthcare system.

He held the Houthi militia responsible for the worsening health situation, saying its continued prevention of vaccination campaigns has accelerated the spread of infectious diseases and put more children's lives at risk. He also called on United Nations agencies to fulfill their humanitarian responsibilities by expanding assistance to the most vulnerable communities.

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