Posted: Tuesday, April 15, 2025. 6:44 am CST.
By Horace Palacio: For the first time since 1991, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has confirmed two cases of measles in Belize. The affected individuals are teenage travelers from the Corozal and Cayo districts who recently returned from a group trip to Chihuahua, Mexico.
Both teens were among a group of 15 Belizeans who traveled in early January and returned in late March. While most group members were vaccinated and showed no symptoms, the two unvaccinated teens developed fever and rash shortly after returning. Lab results later confirmed that both tested positive for the measles virus.
One teen developed symptoms on April 2nd, while the second fell ill on April 5th. Both were immediately isolated, and all other group members are currently being monitored by public health officials. So far, no additional cases have been reported.
Dr. Melissa Diaz, Director of Public Health and Wellness, explained that while Belize’s vaccination rate has improved, it still falls short of the 95% coverage needed to prevent outbreaks. In 2024, the country reached just under 84%, leaving vulnerable gaps—particularly in rural communities.
“This situation underscores the risks of international travel without full immunization,” Dr. Diaz said. “Even one case of measles can spark an outbreak.”
The Ministry has since launched a countrywide surveillance campaign and is urging parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated with both MMR doses. Measles remains one of the most contagious diseases but is also one of the most preventable.
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The post Health Ministry confirms measles cases linked to unvaccinated Belizean teens appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
For the first time since 1991, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has confirmed two cases of measles in Belize. The affected individuals are teenage travelers from the Corozal and Cayo districts who recently returned from a group trip to Chihuahua, Mexico.
The post Health Ministry confirms measles cases linked to unvaccinated Belizean teens appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
