MUMBAI MEASLES OUTBREAK DUE TO LOW VACCINATION COVERAGE

Source– The post is based on the article “MUMBAI MEASLES OUTBREAK DUE TO LOW VACCINATION COVERAGE” published in The HINDU on 29h November 2022.

Syllabus: GS2 and GS 3

Relevance– In the recent week at least 4 states have shown a sudden rise in the measles infection so it becomes an important issue to discuss.

News– The article explains how the chances of children getting measles infection gets reduced if they are properly vaccinated.

What is Measles Outbreak?

Measles is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease that can severely sicken young children.

Generally, it affects the children but it can affect the other age population as well.

However, it is highly dangerous for unvaccinated children.

What is the News?

Recently, several measles cases have been reported in Mumbai and nearby districts.  According to an ANI report, the BMC has reported that 78 new patients were admitted to the hospital on Monday.

What are the main Symptoms of Measles?

• High fever which starts 10-12 days after exposure to the virus
• Runny nose
• Sore throat and cough
• Conjunctivitis (red and watery eyes)
• Skin rash around the face and upper neck which spreads later
• Small white spots inside the cheeks

How to protect the Children from Measles?

The measles vaccine is one of the best ways to prevent this infection. It is usually given as a combined measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine to children between 12-15 months of age. The second dose is usually given between 4 to 6 years of age. Adults who have never received immunization can also consult their doctors to get the doses.

According to CDC, the two doses are 97% effective against the virus. In some countries, vaccination against chickenpox is also combined with the MMR vaccine.

What is the Way forward?

In my opinion Proper strategy to be followed up by the concerned authority in addition to vaccination of children should be adopted to avoid any outbreak.

We can also learn from our successful strategy that we adopted to contain the spread of COVID-19.