Mongolia is grappling with a worsening measles outbreak, with confirmed cases surpassing the 10,000 mark. In the latest update, health authorities reported 232 new infections within a 24-hour period, raising the total number of confirmed cases to 10,065. At the same time, 260 patients have recovered, bringing the total number of recoveries to 8,405.
The surge in infections has been most prominent among school-age children, many of whom had received only a single dose of the measles vaccine. This trend has raised concern among public health officials, who stress that one dose does not provide sufficient protection against the disease. In light of this, health experts are urging parents to ensure their children receive the full two-dose immunisation, which is proven to offer more effective and lasting protection.
Measles is an extremely contagious viral disease that spreads easily through respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes, as well as through direct contact with an infected person. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area, making it highly transmissible in places like schools and crowded public spaces.
Symptoms of measles often begin with a high fever, followed by a dry cough, runny nose, sore throat, and inflamed eyes. A distinctive red rash typically develops a few days later, starting on the face and spreading downwards to the rest of the body. While many people recover without complications, measles can lead to severe health issues, especially in young children, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and in rare cases, death.
The current outbreak in Mongolia is part of a broader regional and global trend that has seen a dramatic increase in measles cases. Health systems in several countries have reported similar spikes, often attributed to gaps in vaccination coverage due to logistical challenges, vaccine hesitancy, or disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Authorities continue to encourage parents and caregivers to take immediate steps to ensure children are fully immunised. Public health campaigns are being intensified to educate communities on the importance of completing the two-dose measles vaccine schedule, which remains the most effective way to prevent infection and reduce the spread of the virus.
The rising caseload is a stark reminder of the need for sustained and comprehensive vaccination efforts to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further outbreaks.
