52 cases have been reported so far last month, 65% involving foreigners
Measles outbreak in Penampang
Publication date: Saturday, January 20, 2024
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[KotaKinabaluNewsonthe19th]The Sabah State Health Department is actively controlling the recent measles outbreak in Penampang District. State Health Department director Datuk Dr Axi Sanah (pictured) said the department was conducting detailed inspections, including epidemiological and laboratory investigations, as well as checking the surrounding environment of the affected area. After 45 cases were reported last month, there have been seven cases this year as of the second epidemiological week, bringing the total number of cases to 52. Dr. Ashishana issued a statement today stating that 65% of the cases involved foreigners, with children aged 7 to 17 accounting for the highest proportion at 46%, while children aged 2 to 6 accounted for 23%. “The majority of cases, 87 per cent, had never been immunized against measles,” he said.
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He said there was an outbreak in Kampung Limpana, with a total of 37 cases reported. He said the cases were epidemiologically linked to cases reported in other affected areas. However, most of the patients recovered and only one was admitted to hospital for further treatment, he said. The state health department and Penampang branch are providing targeted immunization to children in the areas concerned. “This is one of the main efforts to curb the spread of the disease,” Dr. Ashishana said. In addition, he added that the bureau is also actively promoting health awareness activities to let more people understand the importance of immunization and preventive measures. sex. He explained that measles can be prevented through vaccination.
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“The disease is highly contagious through droplets in the air when people talk, cough or sneeze,” he said. “Measles infections can be prevented in the community by ensuring that immunization coverage is consistently above 95 per cent.” He advised parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated according to the schedule. In Sabah, he said measles immunization was provided to children aged six months, nine months and one year old. He said these services are available at government and private health facilities. “We recommend that people with symptoms keep their mouths closed when coughing or sneezing, wash their hands, and seek immediate medical attention,” he said.
2024-01-20 06:21:26
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