HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — A measles outbreak in Zimbabwe has killed 157 children, most of whom were unvaccinated due to their family’s religious beliefs, officials said.

The measles outbreak was first reported in the eastern Manicaland province in early April and has since spread to all parts of the country.

At least 2,056 cases have been reported and virtually all of the deaths have been children who were not vaccinated, Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said.

Zimbabwe’s Cabinet has invoked a law used to respond to disasters to deal with the outbreak, she said.

The government says it is embarking on a mass vaccination campaign targeting children aged between 6 months and 15 years old and is engaging traditional and faith leaders to support the drive.

Zimbabwe continued vaccinating children against measles even during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, but the drive has been hampered by religious groups that preach against vaccines. The Christian sects are against modern medicine and tell their members to rely on self-proclaimed prophets for healing.

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