DOH warns: Measles spreads quicker in hot weather

CEBU, Philippines — The measles outbreak declaration remains in place in Central Visayas and health authorities warn that the virus can spread more quickly with the entrance of the hot season.

 Citing historical data, Ruff Vincent Valdevieso, Child Health Program coordinator of the Department of Health-7, said the number of measles cases usually increases during the dry season, from March to May.

 Last year, an outbreak was declared in Negros Oriental during these months but DOH eventually declared a region-wide outbreak.

The intense heat also contributes to the emergence of other illnesses such as colds and flu.

Valdevieso said the measles virus is transmitted typically through droplets that spread in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. He advised those who are sick to cover their mouths when they cough.

For those who are not sick, vaccines remains the best protection, Valdevieso said.

To also boost immune system, the public should eat nutritious food, take vitamins, and increase their fluid intake.

He suggests avoiding crowded places because measles is a highly contagious infectious disease.

At the household level, Valdevieso suggests proper sanitation. He said adults should train children to observe good hygiene.

With the outbreak declaration still in place, DOH’s health units and centers continue to hold response immunization.

As of March 23, DOH-7 covered 61 percent of its priority target (from six month old to 59 month old) or considered as the most vulnerable group. More than 152,000 infants and children of the 244,091 target population have been vaccinated.

Aside from that, more than 122,000 pupils (Kindergarten to Grade 6) were given vaccines during the school-based immunization while the community-based immunization gathered more than 91,000 recipients (over 40,000 children; over 19,000 teenagers; and over 32,000 adults). — /JMO (FREEMAN)