Ulaanbaatar, February 9: Mongolia is currently battling a significant measles outbreak. The National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) reported on Monday that the total number of cases has risen to 14,123.
According to the NCCD, most of the affected individuals are school-aged children who have received only one dose of the measles vaccine.
In light of the current situation, the NCCD has urged parents to ensure their children receive both doses of the vaccine to protect them from this potentially severe illness.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases globally. It spreads through the air, and symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash. The virus can remain active and infectious in the air or on contaminated surfaces for up to two hours. According to Xinhua News Agency, one infected person can spread the virus to 18 others.
While measles can affect anyone, it is most common among children.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles and stop its spread to others. The vaccine is safe and helps the body fight the virus.
Before the measles vaccine was introduced in 1963 and widespread vaccination began, large outbreaks occurred every two to three years, resulting in an estimated 2.6 million deaths annually.
Despite the availability of a safe and affordable vaccine, approximately 107,500 people died from measles in 2023, with most victims being children under five years old.
Symptoms of measles typically appear 10-14 days after exposure to the virus.
Initial symptoms usually last for 4-7 days and include: runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks.
The rash typically begins 7-18 days after exposure, usually starting on the face and upper neck. It spreads over about three days and eventually reaches the hands and feet, lasting for 5-6 days before fading.
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