Measles hits Lilongwe

The Ministry of Health has declared an outbreak of measles in Area 36 (Zamkutu, along the by-pass road) in Lilongwe.

In a press statement, Secretary for Health Samson Mndolo said the outbreak has affected several villages in the area with a total of 32 suspected measles cases recorded as of 03 November 2023.

“Blood samples from 9 suspected cases were tested and all were confirmed positive for measles. Most of the affected individuals are children aged under 15 years many of whom had not received the recommended measles vaccination. The reasons for non vaccination include religious and cultural beliefs,” reads the statement in part.

The Ministry, with support from partners has since outlined various measures to contain the situation including a supplementary vaccination campaign to reach all children in the affected areas.

Measles can be prevented through basic hygiene practices like washing hands with soap, covering one’s mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing, apart from vaccination.

The disease is highly contagious especially among children with symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes soar throat and a distinctive rash of red spots, according to the Ministry of Health.

Source:NPL