look news india
Measles is a disease affecting the respiratory system, which gradually spreads throughout the body. Its symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose and rash on the body. This disease spreads from one person to another. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a warning saying that a sudden increase in measles cases is being seen around the world. Especially children below 5 years of age are most affected by this disease.
WHO and CDC said the surge in measles epidemics around the world has been driven by health care shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic, disruptions to vaccination programs, and lack of access to health services for families. This situation has become a matter of concern as measles is a highly contagious and life-threatening disease that can cause serious complications in children.
Measles: a dangerous disease
Children infected with the measles virus may be at risk for pneumonia, diarrhea, encephalitis, and even death. Although a measles vaccine is available, vaccination campaigns have been scaled back in many countries, causing the disease to spread rapidly.
Why are children in danger?
According to WHO and CDC reports, children under 5 years of age are most likely to become victims of measles. Actually, the immune system of children is not fully developed, due to which they easily fall prey to this disease.
Worrying increase in global situation
The early months of 2023 saw an 80 percent increase in measles cases globally. WHO reported that the main reason for this increase in measles cases is the lack of vaccination coverage.
preventive measures
The most effective way to prevent measles is vaccination. WHO and CDC have urged all countries to provide their people with access to vaccination against measles. Measles vaccine should be given especially to children under 5 years of age.