22 Apr 2024 | 03:54 PM UTC
Philippines: Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas, especially Bangsamoro, in April
Elevated measles outbreak activity reported in multiple areas in the Philippines, especially Bangsamoro, in April. Confirm vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated measles activity in multiple areas in the Philippines, with a total of 1,627 cases reported Jan. 1-April 6. This is compared to 323 measles cases reported over a similar period in 2023. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (787 cases) is the most affected, accounting for 48 percent of reported cases. Local health officials are conducting immunization activities in multiple areas, and are urging parents, guardians, and caregivers to ensure that their children are vaccinated. This report represents the most complete data available as of April 22.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against measles or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Measles vaccination coverage in the Philippines was estimated at 69 percent in 2022, which is well below the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials reported more than 2,500 measles cases nationwide in the Philippines in 2023, 589 cases in 2022, 206 cases in 2021, and 3,832 cases in 2020.
Measles is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms generally include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash that begins on the face and spreads downward. Serious complications - including pneumonia - can occur, especially in children younger than five years old, adults older than 20 years old, and individuals with a weakened immune system.
