Kozhikode:The health department has intensified preventive and containment measures following a measles outbreak in Valavannur health block of Malappuram district.
This month alone, health officials reported 98 suspected cases — presenting with fever and rashes — alongside six laboratory-confirmed cases in Valavannur and neighbouring areas. Additionally, one death reported last month is suspected to be linked to the disease.
A senior health official highlighted that the vast majority of cases involve children, nearly 70% of whom had not received the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine. Malappuram district medical officer (DMO) Dr Vinod V expressed concern over persistent vaccination gaps in the region despite several targeted immunisation drives.
“We have urged religious authorities, including mosques, to give the message during prayers about the need to get vaccinated. Also, schools have been asked to convene special assembly to spread awareness,” he said.
Steps had been taken to organise special awareness programmes and vaccination camps in the affected areas. The disease has also been reported in areas including Athavanad, Kalpakanchery, Thanaloor and other areas.
The district witnessed a measles outbreak in 2023. Health authorities said that people should not send kids with symptoms to schools.
Measles is a highly contagious, airborne disease caused by a virus in the paramyxovirus family. The virus infects the respiratory tract and then spreads through the body. It spreads easily when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. It can cause severe disease, complications and even death. Symptoms of measles usually begin 7–14 days after exposure to the virus.
A prominent rash is the most visible symptom. Early symptoms usually last 4-7 days. They include fever, a runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, small white spots inside the cheeks.
Community-wide vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. Children should receive two doses of the vaccine to ensure they are immune. The first dose is usually given at 9 months of age and the next at 15 months.
