10 Sep 2024 | 09:23 AM UTC
Thailand: Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas, especially Pattani, in September
Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas in Thailand in September. Pattani is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated measles activity in multiple areas in Thailand, with a total of 4,408 cases (2,371 confirmed cases) reported Jan. 1-Sept. 2. This is compared to the 64 measles cases reported in 2023. Disease activity has been reported in more than 20 provinces, with cases mainly located in the country’s southern regions. Pattani Province is the most affected, reporting the highest number of cases, followed by Yala, Narathiwat, and Songkhla. Local health authorities have launched an intensive vaccination campaign in Thailand’s three southernmost provinces in response to the outbreak. This report represents the most complete data available as of Sept. 10.
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.
The WHO and UNICEF estimated that measles vaccination coverage in Thailand was 93 percent in 2023, within the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. However, the vaccination rates in the southern provinces are much lower than the national rate, ranging from 40-50 percent. Health officials reported 64 measles cases nationwide in Thailand in 2023, 64 cases in 2022, and 5,412 cases in 2019.
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.
