India’s high measles prevalence among children calls for mass immunisation: Experts
Measles is a serious issue affecting millions of children worldwide, with a significant number of cases also occurring in India each year.
It is a serious health condition with potential complications including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, particularly in cases of malnourishment or compromised immune systems. It primarily targets children, although adults can also contract the disease.
Dr Prakash Vemgal, Director – Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bannerghatta, Bengaluru, said, “India has a high measles prevalence among children due to a number of factors, which is due to population density, low vaccination rates, and limited healthcare facilities.
Incomplete vaccination coverage, particularly in low-income areas, leaves children susceptible. Densely populated communities further increase the risk of the highly contagious virus spreading through respiratory droplets. Limited access to quality healthcare in certain regions adds another layer of challenge.”
Dr Jeetendra Gandhi, MBBS, MD Pediatrics, Consultant Pediatrician and Neonatologist Apollo Clinic Wanowrie, added, “India ranks as the second-largest country with a significant portion of its population unvaccinated against measles, a highly contagious viral illness.”
Measles symptoms
Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and mouth spots. The most vulnerable group, children under five, face the highest morbidity and mortality rates. Complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis contribute to fatalities.
