Press Release
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) advises the public of a confirmed measles outbreak in neighbouring Guatemala, as reported through official regional health channels. A total of 11 individuals with measles have been identified in El Salvador (one case) and in Guatemala (ten cases) up to yesterday. Most of these cases are linked to residence in or travel to Santiago Atitlán, Sololá, Guatemala. Although the majority of cases are located in the department of Sololá, additional cases have been located in the departments of Guatemala (City), Petén, and Izabal.
In addition, measles outbreaks continue to occur in Mexico, Canada, and the United States, increasing the risk of exposure and illness for unvaccinated travellers to these countries.
The Ministry reminds the public that measles is a highly contagious and potentially serious viral illness that can lead to long-term complications. It spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms usually appear 7–21 days after exposure and begin with fever, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash that starts at the hairline and spreads downward to the chest, back, limbs, and the rest of the body. Individuals are contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after.
Measles is preventable through vaccination. The measles vaccine is safe, effective, and provides lifelong immunity after two doses.
The Ministry advises the following:
- If you or a family member has travelled to Santiago Atitlán, Sololá recently, please contact your nearest health center or call the MOHW hotline at 0-800-MOH-CARE (0-800-664-2273).
- If you are not vaccinated, visit your nearest health facility to receive the measles vaccine or to obtain more information.
- If you develop fever and rash, seek medical attention immediately at the nearest health facility.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the public to remain vigilant and protected.
The post Ministry of Health alerts public on ongoing measles outbreak in Americas region appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Press Release The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) advises the public of a confirmed measles outbreak in neighbouring Guatemala, as reported through official regional health channels. A total of 11 individuals with measles have been identified in El Salvador (one case) and in Guatemala (ten cases) up to yesterday. Most of these cases are
The post Ministry of Health alerts public on ongoing measles outbreak in Americas region appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
