170 suspected Measles cases reported this year

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Public Health reported through its weekly epidemiological bulletin that 170 suspected cases of measles have been recorded so far this year.

The bulletin highlights that while no cases have been confirmed, at least 18 suspected cases have been reported in various provinces during the current epidemiological week.

“San José de Ocoa and the National District Area IV have the highest number of suspected measles cases, with 8.8 in each locality. Of these cases, 57.6% are male and 38.2% are children between the ages of 1 and 4,” the report states.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend that Member States continue efforts to increase and maintain adequate vaccination coverage against measles, rubella, and mumps. They reiterate that vaccination, epidemiological surveillance, and preparation for rapid response to measles and rubella outbreaks are the three main strategies to interrupt the endemic transmission of these viruses.

PAHO/WHO Recommendations for Healthcare Professionals

• Encourage the practice of requesting proof of immunity/vaccination against measles and rubella within the healthcare sector (including medical, administrative, and security personnel).
• Raise awareness among private sector health workers about the need for immediate notification of any measles or rubella cases to ensure a timely response from national public health authorities according to national surveillance and response standards.
• Remind healthcare personnel to inquire about patients’ travel history to better assess potential exposure to measles or rubella.