The Department of Health through the Measles Elimination Campaign (Ligtas Tigdas) has instituted the vaccination of children. The first dose of the vaccine which is given at nine months gives 85% of protection while the second dose of the vaccine which is given at 12 to 15 months gives 100% of protection.
The increase of measles cases has been directly attributed to the number of unvaccinated children moreover, the children who were unable to receive the second dose of the measles vaccine. Logistics and services are made available nationwide through the allocation of vaccines and with the more than adequate number of health professionals who are more than capable of vaccinating children. There is enough vaccine for the population, especially for the children under five years old, who are most susceptible to the disease. Unvaccinated infants and young children are at the highest risk of measles and its complication. To add to this, unvaccinated women and any non-immune person can become infected.[2]
The measles virus is spread by close contact with the nasal and throat secretions of an infected person and through coughing and sneezing. The virus remains active and contagious in the air or on infected surfaces for up to two hours. It can be transmitted by an infected person from four days prior to the onset of the rash to four days after the rash erupts.2
Prevention of measles is directed towards routine measles vaccination for children, combined by mass vaccination campaign in countries with high cases and death rates. The measles vaccine has been in use for over than 40 years. It is safe, effective and inexpensive. The measles vaccine is often incorporated with rubella and/or mumps vaccines in countries where these illnesses are problems. It is equally effective in single or combined form.2
There is no specific antiviral treatment for the measles virus. Severe complications from measles can be prevented through supportive care and good nutrition. Adequate hydration and ample fruid intake should be implored to replace elements lost through diarrhea or vomiting. Antibiotics are prescribed for eye and ear infections, and pneumonia. Children diagnosed should receive two doses of vitamin A supplements, given 24 hours apart.
