Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. Even though a safe and effective vaccine has existed for decades, outbreaks still occur when vaccination coverage drops or when communities are difficult to reach. Cambodia successfully eliminated measles in 2015, but recent cases show how important it is to maintain strong protection everywhere.

In a new study, researchers from the Institut Pasteur du Cambodge spoke with families living in the floating villages of Prek Toal on the Tonlé Sap Lake, one of the country’s most remote and mobile communities, to better understand their views on measles vaccination. The results are encouraging. Most parents trust vaccines and understand their importance. Families expressed confidence in healthcare workers and showed openness to new, simpler vaccination approaches, while still preferring vaccines to be administered by trained professionals.

The study suggests that the main challenge in these settings is not vaccine hesitancy, but access. Listening to communities and adapting outreach strategies can help ensure that all children, no matter where they live, are protected from preventable diseases like measles.

Read the full study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41498545/