India sends 300,000 measles and rubella vaccine doses to Bolivia amid outbreak

New Delhi: Reinforcing its commitment to the Global South, India has dispatched a consignment of 300,000 doses of Measles and Rubella vaccines, along with essential medical supplies, to Bolivia to assist in containing a recent outbreak of the disease.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the shipment on Thursday, stating, "India dispatched a consignment of 300,000 doses of Measles and Rubella vaccines along with ancillary supplies to support Bolivia in managing the outbreak of the disease. India stands by its friends in the Global South."

The move follows Bolivia's declaration of a National Health Emergency last month in response to the surge in measles cases. As of July 14, Bolivia's Ministry of Health and Sports had confirmed 119 cases nationwide. The Santa Cruz region remains the worst-affected with 98 cases, followed by La Paz (10), Potosi (4), Beni (3), Chuquisaca (2), and one case each in Oruro and Pando.

This humanitarian aid comes shortly after a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bolivian President Luis Alberto Arce Catacora during the BRICS Summit in Brazil earlier this month. The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and discussed cooperation in various areas including critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, digital public infrastructure, trade, traditional medicine, and capacity building.

India and Bolivia share cordial ties, with ongoing development cooperation through Quick Impact Projects and training initiatives under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program.

Highlighting its continued support, India had earlier sent medical aid to Bolivia during the COVID-19 pandemic. In August 2020, it provided 6.2 tons of essential medicines, including 300,000 Hydroxychloroquine tablets and protective gear.