Measles is a highly contagious viral disease, which affects mostly children. It is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth or throat of infected persons. Initial symptoms, which usually appear 10–12 days after infection, include high fever, runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth. Several days later, a rash develops, starting on the face and upper neck and gradually spreading downwards.[1]
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.[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 like the Philippines, with high cases and death rates. The measles vaccine has been in use for over than 40 years. It is safe, effective and inexpensive2
“The Department of Health is presently conducting the Measles, Rubella, Oral Polio Vaccine Mass Immunization for the whole month of September aimed at interfering the transmission of Measles Virus and protecting children from this disease. Together with measles, we also want to protect our children from the Polio Virus which may cause debilitating effects if a child gets infected. We urge parents and primary care providers of children 0-59 years old to bring them to the nearest vaccination post or health centers in their locality to avail these free services. Magkaisa, Magpabakuna!” – Minerva P. Molon, MD, MPH, FPPA.
