The rise in measles cases has become a serious threat to global health. Children below the age of 5 years are being affected the most by this infection.

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, stating that a sudden increase in measles cases is being seen worldwide. Especially, children below the age of 5 years are being affected the most by this disease.

The WHO and CDC said the rise in the measles epidemic globally is due to the lack of health services during the COVID-19 pandemic, disruptions in vaccination programs, and lack of access to health services for families. The 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 of pneumonia, diarrhoea, encephalitis, and even death. Although a measles vaccine is available, its vaccination campaign has been reduced in many countries, causing the disease to spread rapidly.

Why are children in danger?

According to the report of WHO and CDC, children under the age of 5 are becoming the most victims of measles. Actually, the immune system of children is not fully developed, due to which they are easily vulnerable to this disease.

Worrying rise in global situation

The early months of 2023 saw an increase of up to 80 per cent in measles cases globally. The WHO pointed out that the main reason for this increase in measles cases is the decrease in vaccination coverage.

Preventive measures

The most effective way to prevent measles is vaccination. The WHO and CDC have urged all countries to provide vaccination facilities to their populations against measles. Measles vaccine should be given especially to children below 5 years of age.

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