India Sends Vaccines to Bolivia Amid Measles Outbreak, Leaders Discuss Cooperation

India has sent a shipment of 300,000 doses of Measles and Rubella vaccines, along with medical supplies, to Bolivia. This aid is intended to assist Bolivia in managing a growing outbreak of the disease. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted India's commitment to supporting nations in the Global South.

The delivery of vaccines comes at a critical juncture. Bolivia has declared a National Health Emergency due to a resurgence of measles cases in various regions. Reports indicate that 60 confirmed cases have been identified.

Bolivian President Luis Arce Catacora announced the National Health Emergency, emphasizing the need to protect the health and lives of the Bolivian people. The emergency declaration aims to curb the spread of the virus through mass vaccination campaigns and a coordinated response involving local, regional, and international organizations.

The emergency measures are designed to improve the country's response capabilities, activate emergency protocols, and ensure vaccine availability, particularly for children under five. President Catacora urged the public to cooperate with health authorities and ensure full immunization.

Bolivia's Health Minister, Maria Renee Castro, also expressed concern about the severity of the situation and the risks faced by vulnerable groups. She emphasized the importance of parents vaccinating their children, noting that the country has a supply of 500,000 doses specifically for this purpose. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, or even death, especially in children with malnutrition or weakened immune systems.

The recent increase in measles cases in Bolivia has been linked to declining vaccination rates, disruptions in healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation, and a lack of continuity in prevention programs.

In related news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Bolivian President Luis Arce Catacora during the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro. The leaders discussed the progress of bilateral cooperation and explored new areas of partnership, particularly in the field of critical minerals.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction with the ongoing development cooperation between the two countries, including through Quick Impact Projects and capacity-building initiatives. They also discussed collaboration in trade and commerce, Digital Public Infrastructure and UPI, health and pharmaceuticals, traditional medicine, small and medium industries, training, and capacity building.

Prime Minister Modi also conveyed India's support for the people of Bolivia following the recent floods that affected La Paz and other regions. He congratulated Bolivia on joining the International Solar Alliance and extended greetings on the upcoming bicentennial celebration of the country's independence.