36 children have died from an allegedly contaminated measles vaccine administered to civilians in the rebel-held areas of the Idlib Governate. According to a source, up-to 8 villages in the Idlib Governate are believed to have been given these contaminated vaccines, leading many parents in the area to fear for their children’s health. Sources believe that the majority of vaccinations were administered to children in the district of Ma’arat Nu’man – an area under siege by the Syrian Arab Army.
Despite the Syrian Opposition’s claim that the vaccines were contaminated; civilians in Idlib believe that the vaccines had expired before distribution. The Syrian Opposition health officials stated that they would not give out an expired vaccine and that they believe the Syrian Government is behind the contamination. No evidence has been given to prove this allegation true – the debacle is currently under investigation.
