Hyderabad: Over 20 people die due to measles in the state each year, a disease that the World Health Organisation has pledged to eradicate by 2020. Vaccines against measles are effective and safe. What is needed is universal coverage, and awareness, expert said. The Measles Containing Vaccine (MCV1) is administered to children, preferably at nine months, and MCV2 at 15 months. Doctors say some parents hesitate to vaccinate their children due to fear of needles or lack of awareness; some skip the second dose. The MMR vaccine covers measles and also mumps and rubella. The measles vaccine is included in the National Immunisation Programme.
“Measles can lead to diarrohea, pneumonia and other ailments that could be fatal for young children whose immune systems are not strong enough,” said Dr Durga Prasad, a pediatrician. In a research paper, Dr S. Karande and Dr S. B. Bavdekar suggest the creation of multiple entry points — primary school, high school and so on, where children are checked if they have been vaccinated.
The paper states that religious or cultural reasons shouldn’t keep children from being vaccinated. Dr Suneetha Narreddy, an infectious disease specialist, said, “Though the number of cases is not high as opposed to malaria or dengue, we can still strive to eradicate measles. A few cases are reported in adults as well as those who haven’t taken the vaccination as children.”
She said that the popular rumour of vaccines containing substances that cause autism has been proved false by studies conducted all over the world.
Doctors say they get cases of measles from crowded slum areas. “Most of the children born in these areas are not vaccinated against measles as people do not fear it as much as polio. If we hope to eradicate measles by 2020 which is three years away, more people should be made aware of it,” said an official from the state public health department.
About measles
- Measles is an infection of the respiratory system
- It is an airborne disease caused by a virus.
- Vaccines have been found to be safe, and effective.
- Children suffering from malnutrition and who have a weak immune system are usually affected.
